Persistent interstitial lung abnormalities in post-COVID-19 patients: a case series.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Post-COVID Conditions

Background:

• A novel multisystem disease, Long COVID, is recognized as a sequela of COVID-19 infection.
• Key symptoms include persistent fatigue, dyspnea, and chest pain.

Observation:

• This case series followed four COVID-19 patients through hospitalization and for 60 days post-discharge.
• Physiological assessments included spirometry, dyspnea scores, arterial blood gas, and 6-minute walk tests.
• Computed tomographic scans were performed 90 days post-discharge.

Findings:

• All patients experienced fatigue unrelated to hypoxemia or spirometry deficits.
• Interstitial lung alterations were observed in both mechanically ventilated and non-ventilated patients.
• These lung changes suggest potential for permanent lung damage.

Implications:

• Identifying the prevalence and patterns of lung damage is critical for managing COVID-19-induced fibrotic lung disease.
• Establishing long-term outpatient programs is recommended for affected individuals.
• Further research is needed to understand and treat Long COVID sequelae.