Medium-term impact of COVID-19 on pulmonary function, functional capacity and quality of life

The respiratory system is subjected to major involvement during COVID-19 also due to the hyperactive host immune response and the inflammatory organ injury, but there are no evidences about organ dysfunction at mid and long term. In previous experiences with Coronavirus lung involvement of SARS and MERS, radiologic abnormalities, impairment of pulmonary function and reduced exercise capacity improved over time but may be persistent in some for months or even years.

Evidence about pulmonary function tests, after discharge, among COVID-19 patients is currently limited to little retrospective studies with small samples showing, in severe COVID-19, a reduction of forced vital capacity (FVC), diffusing capacity or transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), total lung capacity (TLC), 6-min walking test (6 MWT) and impairment in respiratory muscle strength with necessity of respiratory rehabilitation.

The aim of our study (Respiratory Sequelae on COVID-19) is to evaluate the respiratory function 4 months after diagnosis in patients surviving to SARS-COV-2 infection and the difference between patients with or without initial lung involvement.