The Role of the Complement System in the Pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 Viral Infection in Mental Illness

Abstract

Introduction: the complement system can be a critical factor in the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. Many mental illnesses are characterized by systemic sterile inflammation, in which the complement system is an obligatory participant. Purpose: to present an analysis of scientific data on the role of the complement system in the pathogenesis of viral diseases and the characteristics of the course of COVID-19 in mental patients. Material and methods: the keywords “complement system” “SARS-CoV-2”, “inhibition of the complement system”, “COVID-19” “mental illness” were used to search scientific articles in the databases MEDLINE, PubMed and other bibliographic sources. Conclusion: patients with mental illness are at risk due to physiological and mental characteristics, and infection with SARS-CoV-2 can provoke a relapse of the underlying disease. Therapeutic inhibition of complement system will help reduce this risk and reduce the likelihood of severe complications from systemic inflammation caused by this infection.