Sexual Dimorphism of Coronavirus 19 Morbidity and Lethality

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Infectious Diseases
• Gerontology

Background:

• The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic revealed significant sex-based disparities in disease severity, with males exhibiting higher rates of critical illness.
• Age-dependent susceptibility and mortality observed in the elderly further suggest a complex interplay of factors influencing COVID-19 outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• This review aims to elucidate the role of sex hormones in determining the clinical course of COVID-19 infection.
• It will examine the differences in aging between males and females and their impact on COVID-19 phenotypes.
• The study seeks to provide a foundation for sex-specific management strategies for COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on sex hormones, aging, and COVID-19.
• It analyzes data on disease severity and mortality across different sexes and age groups.
• The review focuses on the biological mechanisms underlying sex dimorphism in infectious diseases.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests that sex hormones play a crucial role in modulating the immune response and disease progression in COVID-19.
• Differences in aging processes between males and females contribute to varied susceptibility and clinical manifestations of the infection.
• Key phenotypes of COVID-19 infection are influenced by sex-specific hormonal profiles.

Conclusions:

• Sex hormones are identified as primary determinants of COVID-19 clinical course and severity.
• A dimorphic approach, considering sex-specific biological differences, is essential for effective disease management.
• Implementing sex-specific management strategies for COVID-19 is recommended to improve patient outcomes.