The outbreak of the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to impact the socioeconomic fabric and the general well-being of numerous populations and communities around the world. As cases continue to rise exponentially, gaining a better understanding of the pathophysiology and the associated clinical implications of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, becomes increasingly necessary. In this article, we delineate the role of COVID-19 in physiological and immunological dysfunction. Specifically, we highlight the various possible mechanisms and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infections on major organ systems as well as their contribution toward multiorgan system failure. By analyzing studies and statistics regarding various comorbidities in COVID-19 patients, we make inferences on the linkage between COVID-19, immune injury, multiorgan system damage, and disease progression.
Keywords: COVID-19; Physiological dysfunction; SARS-CoV-2.