COVID-19 linked to increased risk of autoimmune and autoinflammatory disorders, study shows

A recent study published in JAMA Netw Open has shown that COVID-19 is associated with a heightened risk of autoimmune and autoinflammatory connective tissue disorders, suggesting the importance of evaluating such conditions in long-term COVID-19 management. The study, which utilized nationwide data, aimed to quantify the occurrences of these disorders after COVID-19 infections.

The research spanned from October 8, 2020, to December 31, 2021, using data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency COVID-19 National Health Insurance Service cohort.

Among the 354,527 individuals with COVID-19 and the 6,134,940 controls, the study uncovered notable findings. The COVID-19 group showed increased risks for several disorders, including alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis, Crohn's disease, and sarcoidosis. Moreover, the severity of COVID-19 was linked to varying risks of autoimmune and autoinflammatory connective tissue disorders.

These results emphasize the significance of considering the long-term management of patients with COVID-19 and the evaluation for potential autoimmune and autoinflammatory connective tissue disorders. Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions can significantly impact an individual's health, and early detection and management are crucial for providing appropriate care.

Reference: Lim SH, Ju HJ, Han JH, et al. Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Connective Tissue Disorders Following COVID-19. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(10):e2336120. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.36120