A Cytokine Circus with a Viral Ringleader: SARS-CoV-2-Associated Cytokine Storm Syndromes. Issue 12 (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cabler, Stephanie S.; French, Anthony R.; Orvedahl, Anthony
• Is Part Of: Trends in molecular medicine. Volume 26:Issue 12(2020)
• Page Start: 1078
• Page End: 1085
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 -- COVID-19;cytokine storm syndrome -- multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children -- inflammation -- virology; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; Pathology, Molecular -- Periodicals; Physiology, Pathological -- Periodicals; 572.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.09.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-4914

Abstract

Abstract : An unbridled host immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is likely to underlie severe cases of the disease and has been labeled a 'cytokine storm syndrome' (CSS). Here, we emphasize that categorization of syndromes triggered by a completely novel pathogen based on other seemingly similar, but potentially distinct, known entities is an inherently risky endeavor. Highlights: An uncontrolled host immune response following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and a cytokine storm contribute to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Among the myriad clinical syndromes identified in patients with COVID-19, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is emerging as a severe complication in pediatric patients. Cohorts of pediatric patients with MIS-C reveal overlapping but distinct pictures from SARS-CoV-2-associated cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) with respect to their clinical and laboratory profile. While candidates for targeted therapies based on understanding of the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2-associated CSSs are emerging, and there may be overlap in the pathogenesis and therapy, it is clear that syndrome-specific approaches will be necessary.