Histopathology changes of lung, liver and heart of patients with COVID-19 in Razi hospital of Rasht

Abstract

Introduction: Covid 19 is an emerging and acute respiratory disease with high prevalence that has spread across whole world. The disease can lead to death by progressive respiratory failure, involvement of other organs, and systemic problems. The present study aim was the survey of the histopathological changes in lung, liver and heart tissues of patients with Covid-19.

Methods: In this study, acupuncture biopsy of three organs of lung, liver and heart of 6 patients with Covid-19 disease was performed in Razi Hospital, Rasht, Iran. The samples were collected after death and obtaining the consent inform from the patient’s family. All samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Imaging, serological and paraclinical findings of patients were evaluated.

Results: Tissue biopsy in this study showed advanced alveolar injury and vascular congestion in the lungs of most patients. Small vascular thrombosis was suspected in patients with advanced clinical history. Examination of liver tissue pathology showed periportal inflammation in the liver, spread of steatosis in liver cells. Signs of mild myocarditis were seen in the heart tissue.

Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, changes in liver, heart and lung tissues in patients may be due to secondary side effects of Covid-19, different drug therapies at the onset of Covid-19 disease or the effect of patients' clinical history.