Russian experts have discovered that individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 face an elevated risk of developing osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Researchers from Sechenov University, along with their collaborators, found that a significant accumulation of mast cells in the tissues plays a pivotal role in this pathological process. The detailed findings of their study have been published in the journal Pathophysiology.
Osteonecrosis is a severe condition characterized by impaired blood supply to the bone, leading to its gradual death and often necessitating surgical joint replacement (arthroplasty). Before the coronavirus pandemic, primary risk factors included injuries, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged use of hormonal medications. However, since 2020, the number of diagnosed osteonecrosis cases has sharply increased, even among those who experienced a mild form of COVID-19.
Scientists analyzed tissue samples from 88 patients. It was determined that in those who had COVID-19, the concentration of mast cells in necrotic areas was nearly ten times higher compared to patients suffering from osteonecrosis due to other causes. Furthermore, post-COVID patients exhibited thrombosis and fibrotic changes significantly more often, which accelerated bone destruction.
The researchers emphasize that any person who has contracted the coronavirus infection, regardless of age or disease severity, could be at risk. The team now plans to further investigate the precise link between mast cells and other complications associated with post-COVID syndrome.
