Chronic Chest Computed Tomography Findings Following COVID-19 Pneumonia

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Respiratory symptoms frequently occur in patients with post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), or long-COVID.
• Persistent chest computed tomography (CT) findings are observed in a significant subset of patients, even over 12 months post-infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review chronic chest CT findings in patients with PASC.
• To highlight common pitfalls in the interpretation of long-term imaging findings for PASC.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies reporting long-term chest CT findings in PASC patients.
• Analysis of imaging patterns and terminology associated with chronic PASC manifestations.

Main Results:

• Persistent imaging abnormalities on chest CT are common in long-COVID patients.
• Understanding evolving imaging findings and standardized terminology is essential for clinical management.

Conclusions:

• Accurate interpretation of chronic chest CT findings in PASC is vital for patient care.
• This review aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and management strategies for long-term respiratory complications of SARS-CoV-2.