About this course

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an enzyme that conveys protective effects on the cardiovascular system. However, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein binds to ACE2 receptors in the cells enabling entry of the virus into human tissues. The presence of ACE2 receptors in the myocardium leads to myocardial injury through different mechanisms and produces varied cardiac manifestations. Likewise, hyperinflammation in COVID-19 leads to thrombotic events making coagulopathy one of the leading causes of death in severe COVID-19 disease. This e-learning module summarizes the myocardial injury caused by SARS-CoV-2, coagulopathy, and the use of anticoagulants in the management of COVID-19 disease.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the mechanism of cardiac injury and coagulopathy caused by SARS-CoV-2
• Evaluate the use of anticoagulants in COVID-19 infection

Topics covered

• COVID-19 myocardial injury and coagulopathy
• Anticoagulation in COVID-19 infection