Introduction
The link between COVID-19 and the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) is revealed by ground-breaking research at the Scientific Sessions 2023 of the American Heart Association’s Vascular Discovery:
From Genes to Medicine conference. The possible effect of earlier COVID-19 infection on the quick development of these risky bulges is examined in noteworthy research. The efficiency of immune-modulating cells in slowing AAA formation is also the subject of an intriguing preliminary study. These results provide exciting new directions for investigation and treatment.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Its Life-Threatening Risks
The main blood artery in the body, the abdominal aorta, weakens and balloons in AAA.
If left untreated, AAA can result in a rupture that is fatal.
Since 2010, there has been a 26% increase in the number of fatalities worldwide owing to AAA, with greater rates among smokers and women.
Potential Treatment to Reduce AAA Size
The use of intravenous immune-modulating cells to decrease AAA formation is being studied on a modest scale.
A kind of stem cell known as mesenchymal stromal cells has the potential to lessen inflammation and shrink aneurysms.
With greater dosages of immune-modulating cells, preliminary findings point to a drop in pro-inflammatory cells and a potential reduction in aneurysm size.
COVID-19 and its Impact on AAA Growth
Another investigation looks at the connection between COVID-19 infection and AAA expansion.
People who have previously been infected with COVID-19 are more prone to have fast AAA growth.
The results emphasize the necessity for more study to comprehend COVID-19’s effects on AAA development.
Conclusion
Immune-modulating cells given intravenously have the potential to reduce the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Additionally, those who have already contracted COVID-19 may be at higher risk for developing AAA quickly. These early results open the door for more research and potential improvements in AAA management and therapy.