COVID-19 may cause serious immune disorders, research claims

COVID-19 may cause serious immune disorders, Chinese scientists have found.

Besides, some cells of the immune system become more active, while others - less, a new study reported published on Nature Medicine.

The authors of the study analyzed the immune cells of the respiratory system - including those found in the bronchi and alveoli in people with varying degrees of severity COVID-19. Samples were taken from three patients with mild symptoms, six patients in serious or critical condition, and 3 healthy patients.

An excess of monocytic macrophages -enhancing the inflammatory response - was observed in the fluid of patients with severe COVID-19.

While other types of cells - for example, myeloid dendritic cells, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and T-lymphocytes - were found fewer than in patients with moderate COVID-19.

In severe COVID-19 infections, a high level of cytokines - which are secreted by macrophages in the lungs - is also observed. Thus, macrophages contribute to intense inflammation in the bronchi and alveoli and the cytokine storm - an uncontrolled immune response that leads to disruption of the body and death of the patient. 

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