SARS-CoV-2 Virus Manifestations in the Gastrointestinal Tract: Therapeutic Implications

BACKGROUND: About 1 year ago a novel virus − SARS-CoV-2 − began to spread around the world. It can lead to the disease COVID-19, which has caused more than 1 million deaths already. SUMMARY: While it was first recognized as a disease leading to pneumonia and lung failure, we know by now that COVID-19 is more complex. COVID-19 is a systemic hyperinflammatory disease affecting not only the lungs, but also many other organs. Especially the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is often involved in COVID-19. KEY MESSAGES: This review provides an overview of the different affected organs of the GI tract and offers information on how gastroenterologists should take care of their patients with different GI disorders.