Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 15, 2025
09:02
Infection of Primary Nasal Epithelial Cells Grown at an Air-Liquid Interface to Characterize Human Coronavirus-Host Interactions
Published on: September 22, 2023
1.8K
COVID-19: the difference between the nose and the lung.
Matteo Gelardi1, Mario Notargiacomo2, Eleonora Maria Consiglia Trecca3
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Foggia. gelardim@inwind.it.
Summary
COVID-19 lung pathology shows dysmorphic cells and syncytia, common in other viral respiratory infections. These features, seen in COVID-19, are not unique to SARS-CoV-2, as seen with human respiratory syncytial virus and Epstein-Barr virus.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Virology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- COVID-19 lung autopsy studies report dysmorphic cells and syncytia.
- These syncytia were identified as pneumocytes using biomarkers.
- Dysmorphic cells and syncytia are known features of various viral respiratory infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the pathological findings of dysmorphic cells and syncytia in COVID-19 lungs.
- To contextualize these findings within the broader spectrum of viral respiratory infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on viral respiratory infections and lung pathology.
- Analysis of reported pathological features in COVID-19 cases.
Main Results:
- Cellular dysmorphism and syncytia are not exclusive to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Similar pathological hallmarks are observed in infections caused by human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
Conclusions:
- The presence of syncytia and cellular dysmorphism in COVID-19 lungs, while significant, should be interpreted in the context of similar findings in other viral respiratory diseases.
- Further research may be needed to differentiate the specific mechanisms or implications of these features across different viral etiologies.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:24Nose and Nasal Cavity
7.2K
The nose is composed of an observable exterior segment (external nose) and an internal segment within the skull known as the nasal cavity (internal nose). The external nose, visible on the face, consists of a framework of bone and hyaline cartilage enveloped in skin and muscle and lined with a mucous membrane. This structure is supported by the frontal bone, nasal bones, and maxillary bone and is supplemented by a cartilaginous framework comprising the septal nasal cartilage, lateral nasal...
7.2K
01:17Gross Anatomy of the Lungs
3.4K
The lungs are a pair of vital organs connected to the trachea via the left and right bronchi. The base of these organs meets the dome-shaped muscle known as the diaphragm. Encased by the pleurae, the lungs contact the mediastinum. The right lung is shorter yet wider, and has a larger volume than the left lung. The left lung has an indentation known as the cardiac notch. The superior region of the lungs is referred to as the apex, whereas the base is the lower region near the diaphragm. The...
3.4K
01:16The Respiratory System
86.4K
The respiratory system is comprised of the organs that enable breathing. Air enters the nostrils and mouth, followed by the pharynx (throat) and larynx (voice box), which lead to the trachea (windpipe). In the thoracic cavity, the trachea splits into two bronchi that allow air to enter the lungs. The bronchi split into progressively smaller bronchioles and terminate in small groups of tiny sacs in the lungs called alveoli, where gas exchange occurs.
86.4K
01:29Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract
3.6K
The upper respiratory tract plays a vital role in the respiratory system, comprising several structures that facilitate air intake and prepare air for the lungs. It also serves as the first line of defense against pathogens and particles. This tract includes the nose and nasal cavity, the oral cavity, the paranasal sinuses, and the pharynx, each with specific functions and features.
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract....
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract....
3.6K
01:23Overview of Respiratory System
6.5K
The respiratory system is a complex biological apparatus that facilitates the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, between our bodies and the environment. This system plays a vital role in the physiological process of respiration, an essential function for sustaining life.
What is the Respiratory System?
The respiratory system consists of a series of organs responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The primary function of the respiratory system is to...
What is the Respiratory System?
The respiratory system consists of a series of organs responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The primary function of the respiratory system is to...
6.5K
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
493
Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that targets the lungs, specifically the alveoli. These tiny air sacs, essential for oxygen exchange, become engorged with pus and fluid, severely hindering breathing, decreasing oxygen absorption, and causing significant pain and discomfort during respiration.
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
493