Immune response variation in mild and severe COVID-19 patients

Abstract

Sixty patients with COVID-19 infection were categorized into mild and severe groups, and their immune response was analyzed using flow cytometry and complete blood count. An observed increase in immune activation parameters, notably a higher percentage of CD4 lymphocytes co-expressing CD69 and CD25 molecules, and enhanced activity of the macrophage-monocyte cell line was noted in the mild group. Although Group 2 (severe COVID) had fewer CD4 cells, significant migration and proliferation were evident, with increased CD4CD69, CD8 HLA-DR+, and CD8CD69 lymphocytes. The CD4 to CD8 ratio in Group 1 suggested potential autoimmune reactions, while Group 2 indicated potential immunosuppression from severe infection and employing immunosuppressive drugs. Additionally, Group 2 exhibited an increased neutrophil count, hinting at possible bacterial co-infection. Group 1 showed differences in CD4RO and CD8RA lymphocyte populations, implying that cellular immunity plays a role in developing efficient postinfectious immunity. This intimation suggests that vaccination might mitigate the severity of the coronavirus infection and prevent complications, including long-term COVID-19.