COVID-19: An Immunopathologic Assault

Abstract

When caring for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), clinicians have noticed some unusual clinical presentations not observed before, such as profound hypoxia and severe hypotension. Scientists are probing the evidence to explain these issues and many other unanswered questions. Severe acute respiratory syndrome associated with coronavirus 2 presents an unchartered acute and critical care dilemma. Some of the theories and proposed interventions that will improve outcomes for these critically ill patients are explored in this article. Various testing procedures for COVID-19 are described so valid results can be obtained. Clinical presentations are discussed but continue to evolve as the pandemic ravages our society. The psychological impact of this devastation is also addressed from multiple perspectives. The health care provider is faced with an unprecedented, harrowing situation that has become an internal war that also must be confronted. Professional dedication has provided a formidable response to this destructive virus.