Inflammaging at the Time of COVID-19.

ABSTRACT

Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines. The ensuing cytokine storm contributes to the development of severe pneumonia and, possibly, to long-term symptom persistence (long COVID). The chronic state of low-grade inflammation that accompanies aging (inflammaging) might predispose older adults to severe COVID-19. Inflammaging may also contribute to symptom persistence following acute COVID-19. Antiinflammatory drugs and immunomodulatory agents can achieve significant therapeutic gain during acute COVID-19. Lifestyle interventions (eg, physical activity, diet) may be proposed as strategies to counteract inflammation and mitigate long-term symptom persistence.