SARS-CoV-2 tropism: what urologists need to know

Apart from viral sexually transmitted diseases, viral infections in urology are not common and likely to be underreported. Initially, COVID-19 was thought to be only affecting our practice indirectly through reducing elective work that almost came to a stop. However, recent upcoming reports show that urologists can get involved far beyond that.

Genitourinary tract can be directly affected based on the SARS-CoV-2 virus organotropism. The aim of this article is to present a comprehensive review of the data available and to highlight any possible similarity with the few known viral infections involving genitourinary organs with regard to its pathophysiologic impact.

Urologists need to extrapolate their experience with viral infections in the urinary tract so as to be able to manage such possible COVID infections and its short- and long-term consequences.