Lung function assessment in children with Long-Covid syndrome

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Persistent symptoms post-COVID-19, known as Long-Covid syndrome (LCS), affect children, with unknown pathophysiologic mechanisms.
• Understanding LCS in children is crucial for identifying underlying causes and potential diagnostic markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare lung function and lung ultrasound (LUS) patterns between children with LCS and asymptomatic COVID-19 survivors.
• To explore associations between lung function, LUS findings, and LCS in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study of 58 children (5-17 years): 28 with LCS and 30 asymptomatic controls.
• Assessment included spirometry, body plethysmography, DLCO, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and lung ultrasound (LUS).
• Data collected on demographics, medical history, and acute COVID-19 symptoms.

Main Results:

• Children with LCS were older and reported more fatigue, cough, exercise intolerance, and dyspnea.
• No significant differences in lung function (spirometry, DLCO) or LUS abnormalities were found between groups.
• Children with LCS exhibited lower FeNO values, but no association was found between LCS and abnormal lung function or LUS.

Conclusions:

• LCS in children appears more prevalent in older age groups.
• Lung function and structure show no significant differences between children with LCS and asymptomatic peers.
• Lower FeNO levels in children with LCS suggest its potential utility as a biomarker, warranting further investigation.