Multiorgan sequelae following non-COVID-19 respiratory infections: a review

While numerous studies have documented severe and long-term health impacts of COVID-19 infections on various organs, the prolonged multisystemic implications of other acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are poorly understood. This review therefore analyzed currently available studies about these sequelae of ARIs excluding COVID-19.

Multiple pathogens causing ARIs are associated with significant long-lasting impairments across various organ systems. Cardiovascular events occur in 10-35% of patients following ARIs, with an elevated risk persisting for 10 years. The stroke incidence ratio increases significantly after ARIs up to 12.3. Pulmonary sequelae are common, including abnormal lung function in 54%, parenchymal opacification in 51%, lung fibrosis in 33-62%, asthma in 30%, and bronchiectasis in 24% of patients. The risk of developing dementia is increased 2.2-fold. Posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue occur in 15-43%, 15-36%, 14-62%, and 27-75% of patients, respectively. 28-day mortality from CAP with (versus no) additional cardiovascular event is increased to 36% (versus 10%). Long-term mortality from CAP (versus no CAP) remains elevated for years post-infection, with a 1-year, 5-year, and 7-year mortality rate of 17% (versus 4%), 43% (versus 19%), and 53% (versus 24%), respectively. Patients´ quality of life is significantly reduced, with 17% receiving invalidity pensions and 22% retiring within 4 years of severe ARIs.

Non-COVID-19 ARIs are associated with clinically relevant, frequent, and long-term sequelae involving multiple organ systems. Further prospective studies are needed.