Cardiovascular Complications in Connective Tissue Disorders After COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination
Author Information
Author(s): Guerrerio Anthony L., Mateja Allyson, MacCarrick Gretchen, Fintzi Jonathan, Brittain Erica, Frischmeyer-Guerrerio Pamela A., Dietz Harry C.
Primary Institution: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Are individuals with vascular connective tissue disorders at increased risk for cardiac events after COVID-19 infection or vaccination?
Conclusion
The study found no substantial increase in cardiovascular events in the 30 days following COVID-19 vaccination or illness, except for a possible increase in dysrhythmias after COVID-19 illness.
Supporting Evidence
- COVID-19 illness was significantly associated with an increased rate of a new abnormal heart rhythm 30 days following infection.
- No other cardiovascular events were reported in the 90 days after COVID-19 illness.
- Respondents with underlying vascular connective tissue disorders reported similar rates of allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines as the general population.
Takeaway
People with certain genetic conditions didn't have more heart problems after getting COVID-19 or the vaccine, except for some heart rhythm issues after getting sick.
Methodology
A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted to collect self-reported data on COVID-19 illness, vaccinations, and cardiovascular events.
Potential Biases
Self-selection bias may have occurred as those with more healthcare interactions might have been more likely to respond.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data, which may introduce recall and ascertainment bias, and the number of cardiovascular events reported was small.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 325 respondents, with 118 having Loeys-Dietz syndrome, 176 with Marfan syndrome, and 31 with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Statistical Significance
p=0.005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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