ABSTRACT
The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) is a critical component of antigen presentation and plays crucial role in conferring differential susceptibility and severity of diseases caused by viruses such as COVID-19. The immunogenetic profile of populations, BCG vaccination status, and a host of lifestyle factors might contribute to the observed variations in mortality rates due to COVID-19. These genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors could widely influence infection dynamics and immune responses against COVID-19. The aim of this review is to provide an update on HLA association with SARS-CoV-2 infection in global populations and to highlight the possible neurological involvements. We also set out to explore the HLA immunogenetic markers related to COVID‐19 infections that can be used in screening high‐risk individuals for personalized therapies and in community-based vaccine development. © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
ABSTRACT
Long-Term sequelae following COVID-19 infection are not well established. Hence, COVID-19 sequelae are been studied extensively as cases are being followed up to reduce avoidable prolonged morbidity and mortality in the country. COVID-19 and currently available drugs for treatment are both reasons for a change in immune status of patients leading to reactivation or increase the chance of infection of common diseases like tuberculosis (TB), particularly in India. A case of post-COVID-19 disease (2 months back) presented with breathlessness and chest pain. On history, workup, and evaluation, the case was diagnosed with massive tubercular pericardial effusion suggesting reactivation of latent TB in a post-COVID-19 disease. Due to COVID-19 disease itself and possible immunomodulatory drugs used for treatment, reactivation of latent TB has to be considered in post-COIVD-19 disease with nonspecific presentation and unexplained prolonged clinical course of the disease. This case highlights the need of further follow-up of COVID-19 patients to understand the effects of disease on the immune system and the possibilities of opportunistic infections, especially after this second wave of COVID-19.