Coronavirus disease-2019 and its macro- and microvascular implications: The Italian Microcirculation Society's analyses

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by a violent multiorgan inflammation which activates coagulation, thereby inducing arterial and venous thrombosis. In particular, it leads to thrombi of the microcirculation in a variety of organs and apparatus. Compelling data have confirmed this hypothesis and studies that demonstrate how coagulation parameters, such as D-dimer and fibrinogen, might provide important prognostic evidence. On reviewing the relevant literature available to date, the authors have set out to express their opinion as to the need not to underestimate the thrombotic component of COVID-19 at all levels (arterial, venous, and microcirculatory).