The Connection Between Covid-19 Infection and Microvascular Complications in Diabetic Patients

Abstract

This paper investigates the connection between COVID-19 and microvascular complications in diabetic patients. Through a systematic review of the literature, databases such as PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were utilized to identify relevant studies. Research questions and keywords were first defined, including “COVID-19,” “diabetes,” “microvascular complications,” “cytokine storm,” and “blood clots.” Inclusion criteria encompassed clinical studies, health organization guidelines, and peer-reviewed articles in English published since 2020. After the initial review and removal of duplicates, relevant articles were analyzed to identify key risk factors and mechanisms contributing to the development of severe symptoms in diabetics infected with COVID-19. The results indicate a significantly increased risk of severe outcomes, including cytokine storm and a tendency toward blood clot formation, further exacerbating the compromised immune system in diabetics. A bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and diabetes was also established, where COVID-19 may accelerate the onset of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and cause serious metabolic complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar coma. Based on the findings, diabetic patients who recover from COVID-19 require special medical attention and tailored therapy to reduce the risk of further complications. Stricter glycemic control and caution in the use of corticosteroids in COVID-19 treatment are recommended due to the potential increased risk of diabetic complications. These findings highlight the need for targeted healthcare and further research to better understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 on diabetic patients.