PB1262 - The Role of Endothelial Glycocalyx Degradation in COVID-19

Background: The endothelial glycocalyx (eGLX), a proteoglycan- and glycoprotein-rich layer covering the endothelial cells, has been shown to play an important role during infectious diseases. It regulates vascular permeability, prevents thrombosis, and modulates leukocyte adhesion and inflammatory response.

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate eGLX degradation during COVID-19.

Methods: GlycoCheck is a non-invasive test where a video microscope is placed under the tongue. From the measurements, eGLX thickness can be quantified. The eGLX damage is measured through the Perfused Boundary Region, (PBR), which is the zone where erythrocytes penetrate the protective eGLX. 40 patients with COVID-19 were included at the Umeå University Hospital after written informed consent. GlycoCheck measurements were performed during the acute phase of disease and were compared to follow up. Statistical analysis with related-samples Wilcoxon signed rank test was performed.

Results: 23 out of 40 patients have to this date completed 1 follow up GlycoCheck measurement, 1-2 months after the acute phase of disease. Among these 23 patients, the PBR was significantly increased during the acute phase of disease compared to follow up 1-2 months later (p < 0.01). Mean PBR among first visits during the acute phase was 2.32 µm (SEM 0.05), compared to the mean PBR of follow up visits, which was 2.12 µm (SEM 0.04).

Conclusion(s): Our preliminary results show significant differences between the thickness in eGLX between patients during the acute phase of COVID-19 compared to follow up measurements of the same patients 1-2 months after, thus indicating a degradation of eGLX during the acute phase of COVID-19.