Venous thromboembolism is linked to severity of disease in COVID-19 patients: A systematic literature review and exploratory meta-analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) may predispose to venous thromboembolism (VTE) and arterial thromboembolism because of excessive inflammation, hypoxia, immobilisation and diffuse intravascular coagulation. The understanding of the association might be helpful in early vigilant monitoring and better management of COVID-19 patients at high risk. Thus, in this meta-analysis, we aim to assess the association of VTE with the severity of COVID-19 disease. Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using the keywords “COVID-19 and thromboembolism” and “COVID-19 and embolism,” till 20 February 2021. Thirteen studies including 6648 COVID-19 patients were incorporated in this systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis. Results: The analysis revealed nearly three times more risk than intensive care unit (ICU) care in patients with VTE compared to non-VTE patients (RR: 2.78; 95% CI: 1.75-4.39; P