Cytokine Storm in COVID-19 and its Management
One of the major causes of death in COVID-19 patients is hypercytokinemia, also known as cytokine storm. It is a major determinant of acute respiratory distress syndrome. 70% of COVID-19 patients’ deaths are attributed to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Due to unregulated response of immune system, especially the excessive release of interleukin-6, the permeability of the vessels increase. This increased permeability consequently results in accumulation of fluid in alveoli and damage to tissues, giving rise to signs and symptoms of respiratory failure and dyspnea. In addition to fluid in lungs, macrophages and T-cells are also present. Dexamethasone, a synthetic corticosteroid, given for a short duration, is indicated in cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. It inhibits the cytokine storm and reduces the severity of inflammation in the lungs. Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cytokine_storm#Relationship_to_COVID-19
