Pathology of Covid-19 Flashcards
caused by
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)
The death rate increases in patients with
underlying cardiovascular disease • diabetes • chronic respiratory disease • hypertension • Underlying cancer • Underlying immunosuppression
Chest X-ray
Lung shows opacities / areas of consolidation • Right: Bilaterally lungs show groundglass opacities
Pathogenesis
This invades cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)
receptor.
• this receptor is present in the lungs, heart, and blood vessels
• Also enters via TMPRSS2 (Transmembrane Serine Protease 2)
• After a SARS-CoV-2 attaches to a target cell, the virion releases RNA into
the cell, initiating replication of the virus which further disseminates to
infect more cells.
• Cytokine Storm: This is known as the cytokine release syndrome (CRS),
is a form of systemic inflammatory response (SIRS) that can be triggered
by a variety of factors such as infections.
• Leukocytes are activated and release inflammatory cytokines, which in
turn activate yet more white blood cells.
Gross
From pulmonary oedema to lung consolidation
• Increased lung weight
• Macroscopic pulmonary emboli may be present
• Purulent inflammation, if secondary infection is superimposed
Lung pathology findings
Diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) • Fibrin exudation, with formation of hyaline membranes • Pulmonary oedema, capillary congestion • Fibrin thrombi in pulmonary arteries • Type 2 pneumocyte hyperplasia • Intra-alveolar macrophages • Organising pneumonia • Bronchopneumonia
Cardiovascular system (CVS) pathology
Arterial thrombotic complications • Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) • Venous thromboembolism (VTE) • myocarditis • arrhythmias • pericarditis
Treatment modalities
Ventilation
• Vaccines
• Other: remdesivir, ivermectin, chloroquine, serum therapy, interferon treatment,
mental health, herbal medication,
