COVID-19-Associated Cardiovascular Complications: A Narrative Literature Review

Since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused significant global morbidity and mortality. Although initially recognized as a respiratory illness, COVID-19 is now understood to be a systemic disease with substantial cardiovascular involvement. Both patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease and those without prior cardiac conditions may develop a wide range of cardiovascular complications during and after acute infection. Reported complications include myocardial injury, myocarditis, heart failure, arrhythmias, and thromboembolic events, all of which contribute to increased disease severity and mortality. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on cardiovascular complications associated with COVID-19 among adult patients in the United States, with particular attention to differences between individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease and those who develop new cardiovascular pathology following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review discusses proposed mechanisms of cardiovascular injury, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and current management strategies. By summarizing current knowledge, this review aimed to increase awareness of COVID-19-related cardiovascular complications, support timely recognition in emergency and inpatient settings, and assist clinicians in improving patient outcomes.