Venous thromboembolism is linked to severity of disease in COVID-19 patients: A systematic literature review and exploratory meta-analysis

Purpose Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) may predispose to venous thromboembolism (VTE) and arterial thromboembolism because of excessive inflammation, hypoxia, immobilisation and diffuse intravascular coagulation. The understanding of the association might be helpful in early vigilant monitoring and better management of COVID-19 patients at high risk. Thus, in this meta-analysis, we aim to assess the association of VTE with the severity of COVID-19 disease. Methods A literature search was conducted on PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using the keywords COVID-19 and thromboembolism and COVID-19 and embolism, till 20 February 2021. Thirteen studies including 6648 COVID-19 patients were incorporated in this systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis. Results The analysis revealed nearly three times more risk than intensive care unit (ICU) care in patients with VTE compared to non-VTE patients (RR: 2.78; 95% CI: 1.75-4.39; P I-2: 65.1%). Patients with pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis are at increased risk of being admitted to ICU (RR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.86-2.61; P I-2: 41.2%) and (RR: 2.69; 95% CI: 2.37-3.06; P I-2: 0.0%), respectively. The quality assessment indicated that the included studies were of fair quality. Conclusions Our findings suggest that VTE either deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism may have a negative effect on the health status of COVID-19 patients. This study highlights the need to consider measures for reducing thromboembolism risk amongst COVID-19 patients.

Automated summary

The study reveals a strong association between VTE and the severity of COVID-19 disease, with VTE patients having a significantly higher risk of ICU admission. Therefore, measures to reduce thromboembolism risk among COVID-19 patients should be considered.