COVID-19 AND DIABETES: MUTUAL INFLUENCE AND THERAPY CONSIDERATIONS

The combination of diabetes mellitus and COVID-19 infection represents one of the most significant clinical and social challenges in modern healthcare, posing a high risk of complications and mortality. This study aims to analyze the mutual influence of these diseases, focusing on their pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical features, and therapeutic approaches. Key interactions are examined, including activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, endothelial dysfunction, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism disorders, and the cytokine cascade. Hyperglycemia has been shown to enhance inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, contribute to coagulopathy, and worsen the prognosis of COVID-19. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, in turn, can damage pancreatic β-cells and cause the development of new or decompensated diabetes. An analysis of clinical and experimental data highlights the need for an individualized approach, including strict glycemic control, thrombosis prevention, and inflammatory management. Particular attention is paid to the role of metformin, insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and DPP-4 inhibitors in pathogenetically based therapy. The results underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and the need for further research on the prevention and rehabilitation of patients with COVID-19 and diabetes.