Chinese Journal of Physiology (Jan 2020)

Interplay of COVID-19 and physiological dysfunctions

  • Yu-Hsiu Chang,
  • Chih-Heng Huang,
  • Po-Shiuan Hsieh

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4103/CJP.CJP_91_20
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 63, no. 6
pp. 245 – 249

Abstract

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The outbreak of the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to impact the socioeconomic fabric and the general well-being of numerous populations and communities around the world. As cases continue to rise exponentially, gaining a better understanding of the pathophysiology and the associated clinical implications of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, becomes increasingly necessary. In this article, we delineate the role of COVID-19 in physiological and immunological dysfunction. Specifically, we highlight the various possible mechanisms and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infections on major organ systems as well as their contribution toward multiorgan system failure. By analyzing studies and statistics regarding various comorbidities in COVID-19 patients, we make inferences on the linkage between COVID-19, immune injury, multiorgan system damage, and disease progression.

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