Unusual Changes Detected in the Blood of People Who Have Recovered from COVID-19

Journal of Medical Virology (JMV): Researchers have discovered sticky microclots in the blood of individuals with long COVID.

People suffering from post-COVID syndrome have been found to carry abnormal, sticky “microclots” in their bloodstream. These formations appear to be associated with chronic fatigue, impaired concentration, and ongoing breathing difficulties. The findings were published in the Journal of Medical Virology (JMV).

Sticky Microclots and NET Structures

Scientists identified that these microclots form dense complexes with NET structures — webs of DNA and enzymes released by immune cells to trap pathogens. In patients with long COVID, such complexes occur almost 20 times more frequently than in healthy individuals.

Detailed analysis revealed that the microclots in affected patients are larger, denser, and significantly more resistant to breakdown. This may disrupt blood flow in the smallest vessels and contribute to persistent inflammation throughout the body. These ongoing processes could help explain the long-lasting cognitive and physical symptoms associated with post-COVID syndrome.

AI Identifies Long COVID with 91% Accuracy.

The difference between blood samples was so striking that an artificial intelligence algorithm was able to identify long-COVID patients with 91% accuracy based on a single type of microclot. Researchers suggest that the combination of microclots and NET structures could serve as a first-line biomarker for long COVID, paving the way for improved diagnostics and future treatment strategies.

Earlier, doctors highlighted a vital blood test that men over 50 should consider.