Title:COVID-19 Induces Cytokine Storm and Dysfunctional Hemostasis
Volume: 23
Issue: 17
Author(s): Jermilia Charles and Victoria A. Ploplis*
Affiliation:
- W.M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
Keywords:
COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, coagulation, cytokine storm, inflammation, ARDS.
Abstract:
Background: Infection with SARS-CoV-2 leads to COVID-19 which can manifest in
various ways from asymptomatic or mild disease to acute respiratory distress syndrome. The occurrence
of dysregulated inflammatory responses in the form of a cytokine storm has been reported in
patients with severe COVID-19. Infection can also lead to dysfunctional hemostasis reflected in elevated
circulating D-dimer and fibrin degradation products. Components of hemostasis and the immune
system during infection can result in a procoagulation and/or proinflammatory state. The interplay
between coagulation and inflammation has been elucidated in a number of diseases.
Objective: In this article, we discuss the occurrence of cytokine storms and dysfunctional hemostasis
induced in COVID-19.
Methods: This review was written using literature from the past two to three years investigating coagulation
and inflammation in COVID-19. Additional literature, both clinical and basic research,
related to pathogen infection and host responses were also considered in this review.
Results/Conclusions: Infection with SARS-CoV-2 can lead to dysregulated inflammatory responses
that may be detrimental to the host. The increased expression of various inflammatory factors can
ultimately create an environment that promotes thrombosis.
