Evolution of pulmonary function, CT changes and respiratory symptoms 6-8 months after hospital admission with COVID-19 infection

Abstract

<b>Background and Aim:</b> Patients hospitalised with COVID-19 may have persistent breathlessness, infiltrates on CT chest and pulmonary function test (PFT) deficits (Aul et al. Respiratory Medicine 2021,188,106602). Longer term outcomes of these abnormalities are unknown. We present 6-8 month follow up data of these parameters from our cohort. <b>Methods:</b> We included patients with at least two assessments since discharge after COVID-19 infection. PFTs, MRC dyspnoea, CAT (COPD Assessment Tool) and CT scores (Franconi et al. European Radiology 2020; 30: 6808–17) were collected at 2-3 months and 6-8 months from discharge (1st and 2nd assessment). Data is presented as medians (IQ range) and the two assessments compared using Wilcoxon sign rank test. <b>Results:</b> Median age was 62 (55-71) and 67% were men (n=100). PFTs improved significantly on follow up (Table), with absolute FEV1, FVC and TLCO improving by 13.6%, 4.3% and 12.2% respectively. Radiological and symptomatic improvement was also demonstrated by reduction in CT, CAT and MRC dyspnoea scores. <b>Discussion:</b> Our study shows that respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function and radiological changes improve on intermediate follow up of hospitalised COVID-19 patients. This should provide reassurance to treating physicians and patients recovering from COVID-19 infection.&nbsp;We hope to demonstrate further improvement on longer term follow up.