COVID-19 and Digestive Diseases: A Comprehensive Review on Pathophysiology and Clinical Management

Abstract

A serious pandemic has been presented by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a coronavirus that causes the severe acute respiratory infection known as Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It has become a major health hazard that affects people all around the world. Although the respiratory symptoms are the main manifestations of COVID-19, several extrapulmonary manifestations have been observed, including cardiovascular, renal, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The digestive system may be an additional or non-traditional pathway for COVID-19 to spread and manifest as Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), the entry point of SARS-CoV-2 into the cells is present in the gastrointestinal tract and liver. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting, anorexia, nausea, and diarrhea, are infrequent in COVID-19 patients; however, some of these symptoms may manifest independently of other respiratory symptoms. Also, SARS-CoV-2 virus can cause liver and pancreatic damage. Studying the pathogenic mechanisms of COVID-19 in the digestive system could aid in improving patient diagnosis and treatment. The review aims to provide an overview of the mechanisms, symptoms, and management of SARS-CoV- 2's effects on the digestive system. Hence, medical professionals would be aware of the digestive symptoms associated with COVID-19 and would promptly alter treatment regimens for patients exhibiting abnormal hepatic and gastrointestinal manifestations.