Autoantibody profiles assessment in individuals with persistent olfactory impairment following SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Int Immunopharmacol
; 129: 111599, 2024 Mar 10.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38330796
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Olfactory impairment, particularly hyposmia and anosmia, has emerged as a distinctive early symptom of SARS-CoV-2. Drawing on the historical association of autoimmune diseases with olfactory function, this study delves into the connections between COVID-19, autoimmunity, and persistent olfactory dysfunctions, focusing on individuals experiencing long-lasting smell disorders (3-18 months post-SARS-CoV-2 infection).METHODS:
The study comprised 36 Long Covid patients with persistent olfactory dysfunctions, alongside two control groups. Olfactory functionality was assessed using the Sniffin' Sticks extended test. Non-invasive olfactory mucosa brushing and nasal secretions were processed for nasal samples, while serum samples were obtained through peripheral venous sampling. A panel of autoantibodies, including Immunocirculating Complexes, ANA, ENA, and AECA, was investigated in serum and brush supernatant samples.RESULTS:
Contrary to expectations, the absence of traditional autoantibodies challenges the proposed autoimmune etiology of Long Covid-associated olfactory dysfunction. However, the presence and potential pathogenic role of AECA suggest viral cytopathic and inflammatory involvement in specific anatomical districts. One hypothesis explores the impact of inflammation and cytokine release induced by the viral infection, altering neuronal signaling and contributing to persistent hyposmia.CONCLUSION:
This research contributes to our understanding of the complex relationships between autoimmunity, olfactory impairment, and COVID-19. The absence of classical autoantibodies challenges prevailing theories, while the prominence of AECA hints at unique viral-induced pathogenic mechanisms. By unraveling these complexities, this study enhances our comprehension of post-acute sequelae, offering valuable perspectives on immune-mediated responses in the aftermath of the pandemic.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Doenças Autoimunes
/
COVID-19
/
Transtornos do Olfato
Limite:
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Int Immunopharmacol
Assunto da revista:
ALERGIA E IMUNOLOGIA
/
FARMACOLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Itália