Lung perfusion assessment in children with long-COVID: A pilot study
Daniele Antonio Pizzuto1, Danilo Buonsenso2,3, Rosa Morello2
1Department of Radiology, Radiotherapy and Hematology, Nuclear Medicine Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
Pediatric Pulmonology
|April 25, 2023
Summary
This pilot study found that 42.8% of children with Long-COVID showed lung perfusion defects using 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT. These findings suggest potential vascular issues in pediatric Post-Covid Condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chronic endotheliopathy may contribute to Post-Covid Condition (PCC) by impacting peripheral vascularization.
- Long-COVID in children can manifest with symptoms like chronic fatigue and postexertional malaise.
- This study investigates lung perfusion in pediatric Long-COVID patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess lung perfusion in children diagnosed with Long-COVID using 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT.
- To explore the potential role of vascular dysfunction in pediatric PCC.
- To correlate imaging findings with clinical presentation and exercise testing results.
Main Methods:
- 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT was performed on children with Long-COVID and abnormal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET).
- Scintigraphy followed EANM guidelines for pediatric lung scintigraphy.
- Reconstructed SPECT/CT studies were visually analyzed.
Main Results:
- 14 children (mean age 12.6 years) with Long-COVID and CPET abnormalities were included.
- Six out of 14 children (42.8%) exhibited lung perfusion defects on 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT.
- No morphological alterations were observed on the coregistered CT scans.
Conclusions:
- This pilot study suggests that a subgroup of children may develop lung perfusion defects post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Preliminary findings indicate potential utility of 99m Tc-MAA SPECT/CT in evaluating pediatric Long-COVID.
- Larger studies are required to confirm results and guide clinical management.
