As we learn more about how the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus affects the organs of the body, we will be able to get closer to finding effective viral treatments, as well as a safe and effective vaccine. What we know so far is that, while many people with COVID-19 are asymptomatic or mild, 5% of patients become seriously ill, with the virus attacking various types of cells around the body.
In severe cases, SARS-CoV-2 gets into the lungs and can cause profound damage; But the virus, or the body’s response to it, can damage many other organs.
A comprehensive report published by Science Magazine analyzes the evolution of the coronavirus in hospitalized patients, and the progression of the disease in the different organs of the body.
Nose
Some patients lose their sense of smell. Scientists speculate that the virus could modify the nerve endings in the nose and damage cells.
Eyes
Conjunctivitis, inflammation of the membrane that lines the front of the eye and the inner eyelid, is common in severely COVID-19 patients.
Lungs
The thinner and more distant branches of the ‘respiratory tree’ of the lung end in small air sacs called alveoli, each of which is lined by a layer of cells rich in ACE2 receptors, which have a high affinity for the S protein of the SARS-coronavirus. CoV-2. Immune cells crowd into an inflamed alveolus, the walls of which rupture during the virus attack, decreasing oxygen uptake. So patients cough, fever rises, and more and more effort is needed to breathe.
Liver
Half of hospitalized COVID-19 patients have enzyme levels that indicate a distressed liver.
Kidneys
Kidney damage is common in severe cases and increases the chance of death. Kidney failure, in turn, can lead to other dangerous damage, such as a drop in blood pressure.
Intestine
Patient reports and biopsy data suggest that the virus can infect the lower gastrointestinal tract, which is rich in ACE2 receptors. About 20% or more of patients have diarrhea.
Brain
Some COVID-19 patients have strokes, seizures, mental confusion, and brain swelling. Doctors try to understand which of these damages is caused directly by the virus.
Heart and blood vessels
The virus enters cells, probably also those that line blood vessels, by binding to ACE2 receptors on the cell surface. Infection can also make it easier for blood clots, heart attacks, and heart inflammation to occur.
