The viral replication phase in Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can be followed by a hyperinflammatory host immune response, hereafter referred to as COVID-19-associated hyperinflammation, which can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiorgan dysfunction, and death despite maximal supportive care (1–4). While dexamethasone and other immunosuppressive strategies have shown some promise in improving outcomes in patients with severe COVID-19, they have not shown benefit (and may be detrimental) when given to patients with less advanced disease (5–7). To date, immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies that prevent the development of hyperinflammation and thereby halt progression to severe COVID-19 do not exist.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2021.637647/full (opens in new tab)