In some cases of COVID-19, it is observe that infection by the new coronavirus can increase the risk of the development of thromboembolic diseases, such as stroke, pulmonary embolism and intravascular coagulation disseminated, in which the person is prone to forming clots. However, the exact cause of this new complication is unknown. But it is possible that it is related to an exaggerated response of the immune system to fight the new COVID-19 virus. And, as a consequence, it produces an increase in thrombin, which is an enzyme responsible for clotting of the blood. When thrombin levels increase, the risk of forming clots is higher, which can end up clotting blood vessels.
Who is most at risk for blood clots In Case Of COVID-19?
Clot formation is a relatively common complication in patients who stay in bed for a long time. Especially when patients have other diseases, such as heart problems or lung diseases. Therefore, patients admitted to the ICU generally already have a higher risk of developing strokes or embolisms. However, in the case of the new coronavirus, this rate of clot formation in ICU patients has been higher.
One of the possible explanations seems to be the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation, a condition in which there is the formation of micro-coagulants throughout the body. And also observed in autopsies of some people infected with COVID-19.
Besides, clot complications have also occurred in some young adults infected with the new COVID-19 virus. In these cases, the immune system help us to fight the virus.
What Causes Exaggerated Immunity Response?
The exact cause is unknown, but the overreaction of the immune system may be related to Macrophage Activation Syndrome, which has been observed in some young adults infected with the new COVID-19 virus. These young adults do not appear to have other illnesses that can aggravate the infection. But they are at increased risk of developing serious clotting problems, which can lead to embolisms or cerebrovascular accidents (CVA).
Macrophage Activation Syndrome is a condition that causes alterations in the cells of the immune system. It causing uncontrolled production of T cells, excessive activation of macrophages, and exaggerated release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Generally, the diagnosis consists of the detection of ferritin. Since it is a substance that is responsible for an exaggerated immune response.
Why Does The Immune System Produce Clots?
When the immune system responds in an uncontrolled way, especially in case of COVID-19 by the excessive activation of macrophages, it causes an exaggerated increase in thrombin, one of the most important proteins for the blood clotting system.
When thrombin levels increase, the formation of blood clots appears to increase. Often these clots end up obstructing only one vessel in the leg, causing deep vein thrombosis. But if they manage to reach the lung, they can cause a pulmonary embolism. And, if they reach the brain, they can lead to the appearance of a stroke, better known as CVA.
COVID-19: Process To Treat
Coronavirus is a recent disease, and many of the treatments are still in the testing phase, around the world. However, in cases where thromboembolic diseases occur, anticoagulants are being administered, such as heparin, which acts by blocking the activation of thrombin, preventing blood clotting.
Besides, another substance has also been associated, which is capable of controlling the immune response, preventing it from being greatly exaggerated, especially in the case of young adults.