Evaluation of lung function and oxygen desaturation using spirometry DLCO and 6mwt of hospitalized covid patients on follow up after 1 – 3 months

Abstract

Background: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, profoundly impacts the lungs, leading to potential long-term consequences such as fibroproliferation and lung fibrosis. Aim and Objective: To evaluate post-COVID lung indices, functional capacity, and oxygen desaturation using spirometry, DLCO, and the six-minute walk test (6MWT) through rigorous examination of these parameters. Materials and Methods: The study employed an observational design, investigating the 1 – 3 months post-COVID health status of 70 hospitalized individuals in a Navi Mumbai tertiary care setting. Ethical approval was secured, and participants provided written informed consent. Assessment procedures included spirometry, DLCO measurement, 6MWT, and CTSS for lung involvement severity. The study protocol adhered to ATS guidelines, capturing comprehensive demographic and COVID-19 admission details. Statistical analysis utilized descriptive statistics due to the absence of specific hypotheses, ensuring rigorous data management and validation. Results: The study population predominantly comprised individuals aged over 60 years (30%), with a higher representation of males (72.9%) and a majority classified as overweight (51.4%). CORADS scores of 5 (37.1%) were common on HRCT THORAX and higher inflammatory markers (Mean D- Dimer 570.63 and CRP 19.17) during hospitalization. The mean age and BMI were 53.10 ± 13.3 years and 26.34 ± 3.8, respectively. Hypertension (14.29%) was the most prevalent comorbidity. Mean values for CTSS(10.16 ± 5.4), follow-up duration, pulmonary function tests (Mean FVC % was 72.21 ± 14.85 , FEV1 % was 73.84 ± 15.75, DLCO % 63.10 ± 18.04 and RV/TLC % 91.31 ± 21.69 with 17% patients having increased RV/TLC, and biomarkers and oxygen desaturation in 45.7% during the 6-minute walk test. Conclusion: COVID-19 survivors face lasting lung impairment and exercise limitations post-discharge, emphasizing the need for monitoring and early enrolment in pulmonary rehabilitation programme.