Changes in lung diffusion capacity after SARS-CoV-2 infections in highly trained athletes

Abstract

Objectives: By now, many long-term symptoms after COVID-19 are described, mostly concerning hospitalized patients. Our aim was to investigate the long-term effect of COVID-19 on the lung function with focus on the diffusion capacity of athletes. Methods: 99 athletes (34.17±11.94 years, 56% female) after COVID-19 and 36 athletes (25.80±6.70 years, 65% female) without COVID-19 as controls were included. Symptom severity and lung function were assessed. Lung function of controls were compared with athletes after COVID-19 and changes in patients with dyspnea (during infection and at time of appointment) and changes over time between infection and examination on lung function were examined. Results: Exertional dyspnea during the infection was reported by 51% of athletes after COVID-19, respectively 27% at the time of examination (158±137 days after infection). 30% of athletes after COVID-19 showed a reduced Diffusion Capacity of the Lungs for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO <80% of the predicted value). Athletes after COVID-19 showed a significant reduced forced vital capacity (p<0.01) and forced expiratory volume at 1s (p<0.01) compared to controls. Dyspnea during infection was associated with a significant reduction in DLCO (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in lung function parameters depending on dyspnea at examination or depending on the duration between infection and examination. Conclusion: In athletes after COVID-19-Infection, static and dynamic lung volumes seem to be slightly reduced. Furthermore, athletes reporting dyspnea have lower than predicted DLCO. Factors could be reduced alveolar membrane function and lung perfusion. In the follow-up of athletes with dyspnea during infection, evaluation of diffusion capacity seems to be important. Key Words: COVID-19, Pulmonary Sequalae, Pulmonary Function, Post-COVID