Cardiovascular Complications of COVID-19 and Associated Concerns: A Review

SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that has caused the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 is characterized by significantly affecting the cardiovascular system of infected patients. In addition to the direct injuries caused by the virus, the subsequent cytokine storm - an overproduction of immune cells and their activating compounds - also causes damage to the heart. The development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 treatments is necessary to control the epidemic. Despite an explosive growth in research, a comprehensive review of up-to-date information is lacking. Herein, we summarize pivotal findings regarding the epidemiology, complications, and mechanisms of, and recent therapies for, COVID-19, with special focus on its cardiovascular impacts.