Hypertonic Solution in Severe COVID-19 Patient: A Potential Adjuvant Therapy

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Physiology

Background:

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by hyper-inflammation, cytokine storm, altered neutrophil function, and disrupted sodium chloride (NaCl) homeostasis.
• Hypertonic saline (HS) solutions are recognized for their ability to control electrolytic balance and cell functions, offering a simple, economical, and feasible therapeutic approach with anti-inflammatory effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing knowledge on the application of HS for viral infections.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of neutrophil extracellular trap (NETs) release and cytokine production in severe lung diseases like COVID-19.
• To explore the relationship between electrolyte disturbances and COVID-19, including the consequences of hyponatremia.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes findings from in vitro and in vivo studies.
• It examines the immunomodulatory effects of HS on neutrophil function and NETs formation.
• The review discusses the link between electrolyte imbalances and COVID-19 pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• HS treatment effectively regulates leukocyte function and exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties.
• Studies indicate that HS impacts neutrophil function and NETs formation, crucial in severe lung diseases.
• Hyponatremia is a noted consequence in COVID-19 patients, and HS demonstrates immunomodulatory effects.

Conclusions:

• Hypertonic NaCl solutions present a promising adjuvant therapy for COVID-19.
• HS can modulate neutrophil function and cytokine production, mitigating hyper-inflammation.
• Further clinical trials are needed, but HS shows potential in managing severe lung diseases associated with viral infections.