COVID-19 and Pneumolysis Simulating Extreme High-altitude Exposure with Altered Oxygen Transport Physiology; Multiple Diseases, and Scarce Need of Ventilators: Andean Condor's-eye-view

Abstract

Background: Critical hypoxia in this COVID-19 pandemic results in high mortality and economic loss worldwide. Initially, this disease’ pathophysiology was poorly understood and interpreted as a SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) pneumonia. The severe atypical lung CAT scan images alerted all countries, including the poorest, to purchase lacking sophisticated ventilators. However, up to 88% of the patients on ventilators lost their lives. It was suggested that COVID-19 could be similar to a High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). New observations and pathological findings are gradually clarifying the disease. Methods: As high-altitude medicine and hypoxia physiology specialists working and living in the highlands for over 50 years, we perform a perspective analysis of hypoxic diseases treated at high altitudes and compare them to Covid-19. Oxygen transport physiology, SARS-Cov-2 characteristics, and its transmission, lung imaging in COVID-19, and HAPE, as well as the causes of clinical signs and symptoms, are discussed. Results: High-altitude oxygen transport physiology has been systematically ignored. COVID-19 signs and symptoms indicate a progressive and irreversible failure in the oxygen transport system, secondary to pneumolysis produced by SARS-Cov-2’s alveolar-capillary membrane “attack”. HAPE’s pulmonary compromise is treatable and reversible. COVID-19 is associated with several diseases, with different individual outcomes, in different countries, and at different altitudes. Conclusions: The pathophysiology of High-altitude illnesses can help explain COVID-19 pathophysiology, severity, and management. Early diagnosis and use of EPO, acetylsalicylic-acid, and other anti-inflammatories, oxygen therapy, antitussives, antibiotics, and the use of Earth open-circuit- astronaut-resembling suits to return to daily activities, should all be considered. Ventilator use can be counterproductive. Immunity development is the only feasible long-term survival tool.