Is COVID-19 a cytokine storm driven viral sepsis?

Cytokine storm in COVID-19

Abstract

The new Pandemic, COVID-19 has become a global health issue causing unprecedented emergency in the recent history. The etiological agent, SARS-CoV-2 belongs to β-coronavirus family, is quite different ( genetically and infectivity) from the known viruses showing similar clinical manifestations. The RNA virus is positive stranded enveloped one. Hyperactivated immune system leading to aberrant cytokine storm ensuing in sepsis like pathogical conditions, is thought to be the reason behind severity of COVID-19. As of now, there are no confirmed drugs managing the severe pathogical state effectively. Many Clinical trials with repurposed molecules and vaccine developmental programs are underway in anticipation of finding better management strategy. The mini review tries to highlight different pathophysiological aspects of COVID-19 relating to severity and progression of the infection, also postulating probable therapeutic interventions with repurposed molecules.