Complications after Discharge with COVID-19 Infection and Risk Factors Associated with Development of Post-COVID Pulmonary Fibrosis

Aul, Raminder; Gates, Jessica; Draper, Adrian; Dunleavy, Anne; Ruickbie, Sachelle; Meredith, Helen; Walters, Nicola; van Zeller, Cristiano; Taylor, Victoria; Bridgett, Michael; Dunwoody, Roisin; Grubnic, Sisa; Jacob, Tersesa; Ean Ong, Yee

Introduction: Survivors of COVID-19 infection may develop post-covid pulmonary fibrosis (PCF) and suffer from long term multi-system complications. The magnitude and risk factors associated with these are unknown. Objectives: We investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with PCF and other complications in patients discharged after COVID-19 infection. Methods: Patients had phone assessment 6 weeks post hospital discharge after COVID-19 infection using a set protocol. Those with significant respiratory symptoms were investigated with a CTPA, Pulmonary Function Tests and echocardiogram. Prevalence of myalgia, fatigue, psychological symptoms and PCF was obtained. Risk factors associated with these were investigated. Results: A large number of patients had persistent (45.1%) fatigue, breathlessness (36.5%), myalgia (20.5%) and psychological symptoms (19.5%). PCF was seen in 9.5% of the patients and was associated with persistent breathlessness at 6 weeks and inpatient ventilation [adjusted OR 5.02(1.76-14.27) and 4.45(1.27-15.58)] respectively. It was more common in men and in patients with peak CRP >171.5 mg/L, peak WBC count ≥12 x 10 9/L, severe inpatient COVID-19 CXR changes and CT changes. Ventilation was also a risk factor for persisting fatigue and myalgia, the latter was also more common in those with severe cytokine storm and severe COVID-19 inpatient CXR changes. Conclusions: All the patients discharged after COVID-19 should be assessed using a set protocol by a multidisciplinary team. Patients who had severe COVID-19 infection particularly those who were intubated and who have persistent breathlessness are at risk of developing PCF. They should have a CT Chest and have respiratory follow-up.