Post COVID-19 pulmonary complications; a single center experience

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• The frequency and severity of post-coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) pulmonary complications remain largely unknown.
• Emerging literature suggests a growing number of patients experience pulmonary issues after COVID-19 resolution.
• This case series focuses on short-term pulmonary complications following COVID-19 infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the characteristics and outcomes of patients with short-term pulmonary complications after COVID-19.
• To highlight the spectrum of pulmonary abnormalities and interventions required post-COVID-19 recovery.
• To underscore the potential severity of pulmonary sequelae after COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series design was employed at a single center.
• Demographic and clinical data were extracted from electronic health records.
• The study included confirmed COVID-19 patients who presented with pulmonary complications post-recovery.

Main Results:

• Nineteen severe COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU were analyzed.
• Common post-recovery symptoms included shortness of breath, fever, and hemoptysis.
• Pulmonary complications varied, with some requiring surgery; outcomes included recovery, ICU readmission, mucormycosis, and mortality.

Conclusions:

• Patients can experience significant pulmonary complications after COVID-19 resolution, potentially lasting months.
• These complications can negatively impact quality of life, necessitate ICU admission, and in some cases, be fatal.
• Early recognition and management of post-COVID-19 pulmonary issues are crucial.