COVID-19 AND DIABETES

High plasma glucose levels as seen in patients with diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for increased susceptibility to infection. Evidence-based reports continue to add to the belief that this increases the morbidity and mortality in persons contracting the coronavirus.

It has been proven that elevated glucose levels and diabetes mellitus (DM) are known predictors for mortality and morbidity in patients with SARS. Based on previous SARS research, several potential mechanisms have been theorized that may explain the increase in susceptibility for COVID-19 in patients with diabetes. Potential mechanisms that may increase the susceptibility for COVID-19 in patients with DM include: higher-affinity cellular binding and efficient virus entry, decreased viral clearance, diminished T-cell function, increased susceptibility to hyperinflammation and cytokine storm syndrome, and increased presence of cardiovascular disease.

The combination of these factors is the likely reason many patients with diabetes are at increased risk for morbidity when infected by COVID-19.

Foot care remains vital during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Chiropodists/podiatrists provide essential care to an at-risk patient population. Many of our patients have diabetes, predisposing them to greater complications from coronavirus infection. Steps must be taken to limit disruptions in care, including performing services in lower-risk settings to limit patient.

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News