Abstract
The knowledge on the deposition and retention of the viral particle of SARS-CoV-2 in the respiratory tract during the very initial intake from the ambient air is of prime importance to understand the infectious process and COVID-19 initial symptoms. We propose to use a modified version of a widely tested lung deposition model developed by the ICRP, in the context of the ICRP Publication 66, that provides deposition patterns of microparticles in different lung compartments. In the model, we mimicked the "environmental decay" of the virus, determined by controlled experiments related to normal speeches, by the radionuclide 11C that presents comparable decay rates. Our results confirm clinical observations on the high virus retentions observed in the extrathoracic region and the lesser fraction on the alveolar section (in the order of 5), which may shed light on physiopathology of clinical events as well on the minimal inoculum required to establish infection.
Highlights
Respiratory infections are relevant clinical conditions due to their diffusion, and potentially severe consequences, such as presently observed for the SARS-CoV spread all around the world
For a comparison with a Stochastic Lung Deposition Model, as proposed by Madas et al [27], they found 61.8% of the total inhaled mass fraction to be at the upper airways, ~8.5% for the acinar airways and ~5.5% for the bronchial compartment corresponding to a single inhalation
Our results stress the impact of the upper airways in the initial airborne virus retention in the respiratory tract since the total extrathoracic compartment may retain more than 96% of the virus load
Summary
Respiratory infections are relevant clinical conditions due to their diffusion, and potentially severe consequences, such as presently observed for the SARS-CoV spread all around the world. Ambiental Ltda (by co-author Cataldo, M.) did not play a role in the study design, data collection, and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript and did not provide any financial support the research. The virus particles agglutinate with other organic and inorganic molecules/particles suspended in the air, and this interaction causes their size distribution to change. This will affect its diffusion/dispersion/deposition and residence time in the atmosphere. Model for Radiological Protection-66) from the ICRP Task Group on Internal Dosimetry
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
