Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 18, 2024 4 months, 4 days, 21 hours, 42 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: The COVID-19 pandemic may be waning, but its effects linger, especially for those who experienced severe infections. A new study from Universitas Indonesia reveals significant changes in body composition and cytokine production in patients who developed elevated insulin resistance after contracting SARS-CoV-2. This
COVID-19 News report delves into the intriguing findings of this 12-month longitudinal study and their implications for long-term health.
Indonesian study warns of post-COVID body changes
Study Design and Methodology
Researchers from the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, and the Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital conducted a detailed study to understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 on body composition and cytokine production. They followed 47 COVID-19 patients for a year, focusing on those with elevated Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR).
The study, part of the larger COVID-19, Aging, and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors (CARAMEL) project, was meticulously designed. It included a diverse group of participants who were monitored over five time points - baseline (acute phase) and 1, 3, 9, and 12 months post-infection. The researchers measured various parameters, including body composition, glycemic indices, and cytokine production, providing a comprehensive view of the long-term effects of COVID-19.
Key Findings of the Study
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Altered Body Composition
One of the most striking findings was the difference in body composition between patients with elevated HOMA-IR and those without. Patients with elevated HOMA-IR showed significantly higher body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and visceral fat rating. They also had lower lean mass and a reduced lean/fat mass ratio. Over the 12-month period, these patients experienced a notable increase in BMI and body fat, unlike their counterparts who saw improvements in body composition.
-Cytokine Production Imbalance
The study also highlighted a concerning imbalance in cytokine production among patients with elevated HOMA-IR. During the convalescent period, these patients exhibited lower levels of important cytokines like TNFα, IFNγ, IL-2, IL-10, and granzyme B. However, the ratios of pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNFα/IL-10, IFNγ/IL-10, IL-2/IL-10, and granzyme B/IL-10) were higher, suggesting a persistent state of immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation.
Cytokines play a crucial role in regulating the immune response. The study's finding of reduced cytokine production in patients with elevated HOMA-IR is particularly troubling. Cytokines like IL-10 are essential for controlling inflammation and promoting tissue healing. Low levels of IL-10, coupled with high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggest an ongoing state of immune imbalance that could exacerbate insulin resistance and other metabolic issues.
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Elevated HOMA-IR and Its Impact
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HOMA-IR is a critical indicator of insulin resistance, and its elevation can signal significant metabolic disruptions. The study found that patients with elevated HOMA-IR had worse glycemic control, as evidenced by higher levels of HbA1c, fasting insulin, and fasting C-peptide. These patients also showed signs of beta-cell dysfunction, which is a precursor to diabetes.
Implications for Long-Term Health
The findings of this study suggest that COVID-19 can lead to significant and lasting changes in body composition and immune function. Patients with elevated HOMA-IR after SARS-CoV-2 infection may be at increased risk for chronic inflammatory conditions and metabolic disorders like diabetes. This is particularly concerning given the global rise in diabetes and obesity rates.
Recommendations for Patients
Given these findings, the researchers recommend a two-pronged approach to mitigate the long-term effects of COVID-19. First, a nutritional approach aimed at reducing body fat and improving lean mass is crucial. Second, promoting physical activity can help improve body composition and reduce HOMA-IR, thereby ameliorating glycemic indices.
Conclusion
This comprehensive study sheds light on the long-term health risks associated with COVID-19, particularly for patients with elevated insulin resistance. The alterations in body composition and cytokine production underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and intervention to prevent chronic health issues.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Biomedicines.
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/12/7/1581
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-long-haulers-might-suffer-dermatological-problems-that-can-be-long-lasting
