Cytokine Storm In COVID-19: New Implications”

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, poses a significant global health threat. As of May 25th, 2020, it has claimed over 347,000 lives worldwide.  Research indicates that severe COVID-19 cases exhibit elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, particularly interleukin-6 (IL-6), compared to milder cases. This cytokine surge correlates with poor patient prognosis. Moreover, postmortem lung tissue analysis reveals significant infiltration of pro-inflammatory cells (T-helper 17 cells and macrophages) in those who succumbed to the virus. Collectively, this evidence strongly implicates the cytokine storm in COVID-19 mortality. This review provides a concise analysis of the pathologic and clinical manifestations of the COVID-19 cytokine storm. SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to trigger a distinct elevation in IL-6 and induces lymphocyte fatigue. The IL-6 inhibitor tocilizumab demonstrates initial promise in mitigating this response, with evidence suggesting relative safety and efficacy.