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COVID-19 Intelligence Report: Gastroenterology

May 18, 2020

Title: Manifestations and prognosis of gastrointestinal and liver involvement in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Publisher: The Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Publication Date: May 12, 2020

URL: https://www.thelancet.com/pdfs/journals/langas/PIIS2468-1253(20)30126-6.pdf

Key Takeaway:  Meta-analysis of 35 studies (6686 patients) revealed pooled prevalence of digestive symptoms (often nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite) was 15%, abnormal liver function was 19%. Subgroup analysis showed patients with severe COVID-19 had significantly higher rates of gastrointestinal symptoms and liver injury compared with those with non-severe disease (odds ratio [OR] 1.60 [95% CI 1.09–2.36]; p=0.0020; I²=44%), OR (2.20 [1.60–3.02]; p<0.00001; I²=36% respectively). Pediatric COVID patients had a similar prevalence of GI symptoms to those of adults.

May 11, 2020

Title: New COVID-19 guidance for gastroenterologists

Publisher: American Gastroenterological Association

Publication Date: 04 May 2020

URL: https://www.gastro.org/news/new-covid-19-guidance-for-gastroenterologists

Key Takeaway: GI symptoms might not be as common as originally thought in COVID.  Abnormalities in liver function tests, however, should prompt thorough evaluation.