Researchers in Nigeria have uncovered alarming cardiac issues associated with Lassa Fever (LF), a viral illness that remains a major health threat in West Africa. A recent clinical trial highlights the potential for severe heart abnormalities among those hospitalized with the virus.
Clinical Trial Reveals High Incidence of ECG Changes
The study, conducted between August 2021 and October 2022, involved 40 adult participants diagnosed with mild LF using RT-PCR tests. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either ribavirin or favipiravir. Throughout the ten-day treatment period, regular electrocardiogram (ECG) assessments were performed to monitor heart function.
Prevalence and Types of Cardiac Alterations Observed
Findings indicated that nearly half of the subjects exhibited significant ECG abnormalities. Specifically, 35% experienced T-wave inversions, 13% showed conduction disorders, 10% had ST-segment elevations, and 5% developed arrhythmias. Notably, over a third of these heart-related changes resolved by the study’s conclusion.
- Lassa virus may directly affect heart tissues, leading to measurable ECG changes.
- The emergence of chest pain alongside ECG abnormalities suggests possible perimyocarditis.
- Both treatment medications showed similar cardiac side effect profiles, indicating the virus as the likely cause.
The correlation between Lassa virus infection and cardiac disturbances underscores the need for comprehensive cardiovascular monitoring in LF patients. Healthcare providers should be vigilant for symptoms like chest pain and consider regular ECG screenings as part of the treatment protocol.
Understanding the cardiac implications of Lassa Fever can lead to more effective management strategies, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with severe cases. Further research is essential to explore the mechanisms by which LASV impacts the heart and to develop targeted therapies that can mitigate these effects.
Enhancing cardiac care in LF treatment protocols not only addresses immediate health concerns but also contributes to better long-term outcomes for affected individuals. As LF continues to pose significant health challenges in West Africa, integrating cardiac health into comprehensive care models becomes increasingly crucial.
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