Implications of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the endocrine system

Abstract

Introduction: Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection has been a public health problem since its inception in 2020 in Wuhan, China. Its main route of cellular entry is angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Although the lung is the main organ affected due to its high concentration of ACE2, this enzyme also exists in endocrine organs, causing alterations in the hormonal system. Objective: To conduct a systematic review on the implications of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the endocrine system. Methodology: Non-experimental, descriptive study, a systematic search was conducted on the influence of SARS-CoV-2 on the endocrine system from January 2020 to August 2023. Results: Some structures of the endocrine system are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection such as the anterior pituitary because it is located outside the blood-brain barrier, other affected areas such as the thyroid gland is susceptible because of its high concentrations of ACE 2 and also has been observed greater degree of severity in patients without thymus because it increases the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Conclusion: There is a relationship between the severity of this viral infection and the decrease in serum hormone concentrations of TSH, T3, T4.