Interv Akut Kardiol. 2021;20(2):73-77 | DOI: 10.36290/kar.2021.023

Pathogenesis of covid-19: principles of viral infection and immune response

Jiří Beneš¹, Dana Nováková²

¹ Klinika infekčních nemocí 3. LF UK, Nemocnice Na Bulovce, Praha

² Klinika nukleární medicíny a endokrinologie, FN Motol, Praha

SARS-CoV-2 infection manifests itself with several clinical forms, from an asymptomatic course to a life-threatening multiple-organ dysfunction. In terms of pathogenesis, these clinical forms can be divided into a group of mucosal infections (respiratory tract infections, gastroenteritis) and internal organ infections (especially pneumonia). Of particular concern is the dysregulated immune response associated with the production of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNFα) which is otherwise typical of severe bacterial infections. Knowledge of the pathogenetic context allows for better interpretation of the virological and serological findings and aids in choosing an individualized covid-19 treatment.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, covid-19, immune response, pathogenesis.

Published: July 9, 2021  Show citation