SARS-CoV-2 effects in the genitourinary system and prospects of sex hormone therapy

Liu, Kuangzheng; Chen, Xinglin; Ren, Xiaohan; Wu, Yuqing; Ren, Shancheng; Qin, Chao

Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which leads to acute respiratory infection symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 infection is not always limited to the respiratory tract, and renal infection and dysfunction have been shown to be specific risk factors for death. There is growing evidence that corona viruses may also invade the genitourinary system, causing urological symptoms. In this review, we discuss the influence of SARS-CoV-2 on the urogenital system and the possibility of urinary tract transmission. In addition, several studies have revealed that COVID-19 has a higher incidence, severity and mortality in men than women. This disparity is due to biological rather than comorbid or behavioral sex differences. Because the male reproductive system is unique, the function of sex hormones in COVID-19 infection may explain the differences between males and females. Understanding these factors will provide appropriate prevention measures and adequate triage strategies and guide the drug discovery process.