Lung ultrasound as a tool for monitoring the interstitial changes in recently hospitalised patients with COVID-19 pneumonia - The COVIDLUS study - 15/03/23
![](/templates/common/images/mail.png)
Abstract |
Background
Long-term respiratory effects can occur after COVID-19 pneumonia (CP). The COVID Lung Ultrasound Study (COVIDLUS) aimed to investigate the utility of serial lung ultrasound (LUS) to track functional and physiological recovery after hospitalisation in patients with CP.
Methods
Between April 2021 and April 2022, 21 patients were recruited at discharge (D0). LUS was performed on D0, day 41 (D41) and day 83 (D83). CT Thorax was performed on D83. Lymphocyte count, Ferritin, Lactate Dehydrogenase, Troponin, CRP, and D-dimers were measured at D0, D41 and D83. 6 minute walking test (6MWT) was performed on D83 and quality of life questionnaires and spirometry completed on D41 and D83.
Results
19 subjects completed the study (10 males [52%]; mean age: 52 years [range:37–74]). 1 patient died. LUS scores were significantly higher at D0, compared to D41 and D83 (Mean score:10.9 [D0]/2.8 [D41]/1.5 [D83]; p < 0.0001). LUS scores correlated poorly with CT at D83 (Pearson r2 = 0.28). Mean lymphocyte counts were lower at D0 but increased at D41 and D83. Mean serum Ferritin was significantly lower at D41 and D83, as compared to D0. The mean 6MWT distance was 385 m (130–540 m). Quality of life measures did not differ at D41 and D83. Lung function increased between D41 and D83 with mean increase in FEV1 and FVC of 160 ml and 190 ml respectively.
Conclusion
LUS can monitor the early recovery of lung interstitial changes from CP. The utility of LUS to predict development of subsequent lung fibrosis post-COVID deserves further study.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Highlights |
• | COVIDLUS is the first study to investigate the association of lung ultrasound findings with physiological recovery in post-COVID patients. |
• | Lung Ultrasound is a useful tool to monitor the resolution of COVID-associated lung inflammation in an outpatient setting. |
• | CT features of lung fibrosis correlate poorly with lung ultrasound findings at 12 weeks following COVID pneumonitis. |
• | Many patients in COVIDLUS report poor quality-of-life despiteresolution of COVID-related CT and lung ultrasound changes. |
Keywords : COVIDLUS, LUNG ULTRASOUND, COVID-19, IMAGING, LUNG FIBROSIS
Plan
☆ | All authors listed contributed substantially to the study design, data analysis and interpretation, and the writing of the manuscript. |
Vol 210
Article 107176- avril 2023 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.