Cytokine levels in sputum, not serum, may be more helpful for indicating the damage in the lung and the prognosis of severe COVID-19 - A case series

J Infect. 2021 Nov;83(5):e6-e9. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2021.08.026. Epub 2021 Aug 19.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the relationship between the severity of lung damage and cytokine levels in sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), serum.

Method: Eight severe patients infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were admitted and their cytokines and chest computed tomography (CT) were analyzed.

Results: Compared with in serum, IL-6 and TNF-α in sputum and in BALF show more directly reflect the severity of COVID-19 critical patients. The gradient ratio of IL-6 levels may predict the prognosis of severe patients.

Conclusion: Cytokine levels in the sputum may be more helpful for indicating lung damage. Local intervention through the respiratory tract is expected to benefit patients with severe COVID-19.

Keywords: BALF; COVID-19; IL-6; Sputum; TNF-α.

Publication types

  • Letter
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid
  • COVID-19* / diagnosis
  • COVID-19* / pathology
  • Cytokines* / analysis
  • Humans
  • Lung / pathology
  • Lung / virology
  • Prognosis
  • Sputum / chemistry*

Substances

  • Cytokines