A 2-year-old intact male DSH cat from a multi-cat household presents with progressive weight loss, anorexia, and a palpable abdominal mass. Abdominal effusion is present, and fluid analysis reveals a protein concentration of 5.8 g/dL, a Rivalta test that is positive, and a cell count of 4,200 cells/μL (predominantly non-degenerate neutrophils and macrophages). An immunofluorescence assay on the effusion detects coronavirus antigen within macrophages. Which statement BEST describes the pathogenesis underlying this cat's condition?

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