Endotheliitis, Shunts, and Ventilation–Perfusion Mismatch in Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Literature Review of Disease Mechanisms

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic has continued to impact global health. However, while immunity acquired by vaccines has been developed, 40% of the world's population has still not been vaccinated. Economic problems associated with acquiring novel therapies, misinformation, and differences in treatment protocols have generated catastrophic results, especially in low-resource countries. Understanding the pathophysiological aspects of coronavirus disease and the therapeutic strategies that have been validated to date is essential for successful medical care. In this review, I summarize the historical aspects of the virus, molecules involved in infecting the host, and consequences of viral interactions with and in tissues.