Ultrasound during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Global Approach

SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2) rapidly spread worldwide as COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019), causing a costly and deadly pandemic. Different pulmonary manifestations represent this syndrome's most common clinical manifestations, together with the cardiovascular complications frequently observed in these patients. Ultrasound (US) evaluations of the lungs, heart, and lower limbs may be helpful in the diagnosis, follow-up, and prognosis of patients with COVID-19. Moreover, POCUS (point-of-care ultrasound) protocols are particularly useful for patients admitted to intensive care units. The present review aimed to highlight the clinical conditions during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in which the US represents a crucial diagnostic tool.

Automated summary

SARS-CoV-2 rapidly spread globally, causing the costly and deadly COVID-19 pandemic. Pulmonary manifestations are common in this syndrome, along with frequent cardiovascular complications. Ultrasound evaluations, particularly POCUS protocols, are crucial in diagnosing, monitoring, and predicting the prognosis of COVID-19 patients, especially in intensive care units.