Pathological effects of SARS-CoV-2 on hematological and immunological cells: Alterations in count, morphology, and...

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Hematology
• Virology

Background:

• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a global pandemic, leading to millions of infections and deaths.
• The virus profoundly impacts the host's immunological and hematological systems, contributing to disease pathology and clinical symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of COVID-19 on the count, function, and morphology of immune and blood cells.
• To elucidate the role of these cellular alterations in the pathophysiology of COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing research on COVID-19's impact on hematological and immunological parameters.
• Literature search was conducted using relevant keywords related to COVID-19, immune cells, blood cells, and pathophysiology.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 infection is associated with significant changes in white blood cell counts, including lymphopenia and neutrophilia.
• Alterations in red blood cell morphology and function, as well as platelet count and activation, have been observed.
• Immune cell functions, such as T-cell and B-cell responses, are impaired during SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions:

• The hematological and immunological alterations observed in COVID-19 patients are critical to understanding disease progression.
• Further research into these cellular changes can guide the development of targeted therapies and improve patient outcomes.