Published online May 15, 2021. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v12.i5.642
Peer-review started: January 19, 2021
First decision: February 12, 2021
Revised: February 26, 2021
Accepted: April 20, 2021
Article in press: April 20, 2021
Published online: May 15, 2021
Processing time: 106 Days and 23.1 Hours
In early studies regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), type 2 diabetes mellitus was considered to contribute substantially to the disease’s inflammatory response. Subsequently, even hyperglycemia, regardless of insulin resistance or diabetes mellitus, was found to be additionally harmful. Recent studies have shown inflammation of the pancreatic β cells in COVID-19, even leading to new onset diabetes mellitus. We hereby summarize core literature on glycemia and COVID-19, and present implicated pathways and mechanisms.
Core Tip: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pathogen has led to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This virus exerts multi-organ actions after an initial respiratory infection. In early studies regarding COVID-19, type 2 diabetes mellitus was considered to contribute substantially to the disease’s inflammatory response. Hyperglycemia in COVID-19, irrespective of insulin resistance or history of diabetes, is a portent of worse prognosis. Further studies will help elucidate the link between glycemia and COVID-19.