Validation of remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) in COVID-19

Abstract

<b>Introduction:</b> Remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) is a non-invasive electromagnetic wave technology which provides an accurate reading of lung fluid content. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the reliability of ReDS technology in assessing the excess of lung fluid status in COVID-19 pneumonia, as compared to CT scan, and to explore its potential role in monitoring clinical evolution of these patients at bedside. <b>Methods:</b> Consecutive patients admitted to sub-intensive care unit with COVID-19 pneumonia were prospectively enrolled in this pilot study. Patients were measured with ReDS system on admission, at day 7 and day 15. CT scans were performed on admission and at day 15.Each CT was reviewed by two expert clinicians and an involvement score on scale of 0-4 per lobe was given. Blood tests were also collected. <b>Results:</b> Eleven patients were recruited. ReDS readings were higher than the upper normal limit (i.e.≥35%) in 45% of cohort. Average change in ReDS after two weeks was -4.6±2.9 [% fluid] (p=0.006). Similar trend was seen in total CT score (-3.0±2.4, p=0.03).Good correlations between change in ReDS, CT score and inflammatory blood parameters were observed. <b>Conclusions:</b> Our findings overall show significant longitudinal changes in ReDS measurements over time, that were strongly correlated with CT score and selected clinical and serological features. <b>Reference:</b> O. Amir et al. <i>International Journal of Cardiology</i> 221 (2016) 841–846