SARS-CoV-2 tropism: what urologists need to know

BACKGROUND: Apart from viral sexually transmitted diseases, viral infections in urology are not common and likely to be underreported. Initially, COVID-19 was thought to be only affecting our practice indirectly through reducing elective work that almost came to a stop. However, recent upcoming reports show that urologists can get involved far beyond that. MAIN BODY: Genitourinary tract can be directly affected based on the SARS-CoV-2 virus organotropism. The aim of this article is to present a comprehensive review of the data available and to highlight any possible similarity with the few known viral infections involving genitourinary organs with regard to its pathophysiologic impact. CONCLUSION: Urologists need to extrapolate their experience with viral infections in the urinary tract so as to be able to manage such possible COVID infections and its short- and long-term consequences.