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Griffin DO. Postacute Sequelae of COVID (PASC or Long COVID): An Evidenced-Based Approach. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae462. [PMID: 39220656 PMCID: PMC11363684 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
While the acute manifestations of infectious diseases are well known, in some individuals, symptoms can either persist or appear after the acute period. Postviral fatigue syndromes are recognized with other viral infections and are described after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We have a growing number of individuals with symptoms that persist for weeks, months, and years. Here, we share the evidence regarding the abnormalities associated with postacute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) and therapeutics. We describe physiological and biochemical abnormalities seen in individuals reporting PASC. We describe the several evidence-based interventions to offer patients. It is expected that this growing understanding of the mechanisms driving PASC and the benefits seen with certain therapeutics may not only lead to better outcomes for those with PASC but may also have the potential for understanding and treating other postinfectious sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel O Griffin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
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Farrell A, O'Flynn J, Jennings A. An investigation into General Practitioners' experience with Long Covid. Ir J Med Sci 2024:10.1007/s11845-024-03782-7. [PMID: 39162988 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-024-03782-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long Covid (LC) is the continuation or development of new symptoms after initial COVID-19 infection. Little is known about General Practitioners' (GP) experience of managing patients with LC. AIMS The aim of this study is to establish GP experiences with LC. METHODS A survey was designed and piloted in three training practices prior to distribution. The survey was completed by doctors working in GP training scheme practices in Cork, Ireland. RESULTS Fifty-three of one hundred and sixty invited GPs completed the survey, indicating a 33% response rate. 8% (4/53) of participants agreed and 0% (0/53) strongly agreed with the statement they were "confident in diagnosing Long Covid". 81% (43/53) were not confident in treating patients with LC. 70% (37/53) were unaware of indications for referral to secondary care. 38% (20/53) were aware of the referral pathways to local LC clinics. 93% (49/53) agreed there were educational deficits regarding LC. CONCLUSIONS There was a lack of confidence in the diagnosis and management of LC, and in the interface with secondary care. There is demand for educational interventions to assist GPs with their care of patients with this emerging condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aisling Jennings
- Department of General Practice, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Hapfelmeier A, Donhauser J, Teusen C, Eck S, Schneider A. Frequency, persistence and relation of disease symptoms, psychosomatic comorbidity and daily life impairment after COVID-19: a cohort study in general practice. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:295. [PMID: 39127653 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02551-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-lasting symptoms with a possible relation to psychosomatic comorbidity have been described following COVID-19. However, data is sparse in general practice. The trial's objective was to investigate the time-dependent frequency of disease symptoms and relation to psychosomatic comorbidity and daily life impairment (DLI). METHODS Comparative cohort study of patients reporting a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection and uninfected controls in general practice. Participants were recruited in 14 general practices in the greater Munich area. Data collection was questionnaire based with a 12 months follow-up. Descriptive statistics, multivariable regression and bivariate correlations were used for analysis. RESULTS A total of n = 204 cases infected up to 42 months ago (n = 141 Omicron, n = 63 earlier variants), and n = 119 controls were included. Disease symptoms were substantially more prevalent in cases (55-79% vs. 43% within one year of infection). This difference also appeared in the multivariable analysis adjusting for socio-demographics and psychosomatic comorbidity with odds ratios (OR) of 4.15 (p < 0.001) and 3.51 (p = 0.054) for the cohorts with Omicron or earlier variants infection (vs. controls), respectively. It was persistent with earlier variants (OR 1.00 per month, p = 0.903), while a decreasing trend was observed for Omicron (OR 0.89 per month, p < 0.001). DLI was especially correlated with fatigue (r = 0.628). CONCLUSION DLI, psychosomatic comorbidity and independently increased disease symptoms require holistic treatment of the patient in general practice according to the bio-psycho-social model. A key role in restoring the daily life capability may be attributed to the symptom fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Hapfelmeier
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Jan Donhauser
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Clara Teusen
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Eck
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Antonius Schneider
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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4
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Al-Aly Z, Davis H, McCorkell L, Soares L, Wulf-Hanson S, Iwasaki A, Topol EJ. Long COVID science, research and policy. Nat Med 2024; 30:2148-2164. [PMID: 39122965 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03173-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Long COVID represents the constellation of post-acute and long-term health effects caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection; it is a complex, multisystem disorder that can affect nearly every organ system and can be severely disabling. The cumulative global incidence of long COVID is around 400 million individuals, which is estimated to have an annual economic impact of approximately $1 trillion-equivalent to about 1% of the global economy. Several mechanistic pathways are implicated in long COVID, including viral persistence, immune dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, complement dysregulation, endothelial inflammation and microbiome dysbiosis. Long COVID can have devastating impacts on individual lives and, due to its complexity and prevalence, it also has major ramifications for health systems and economies, even threatening progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Addressing the challenge of long COVID requires an ambitious and coordinated-but so far absent-global research and policy response strategy. In this interdisciplinary review, we provide a synthesis of the state of scientific evidence on long COVID, assess the impacts of long COVID on human health, health systems, the economy and global health metrics, and provide a forward-looking research and policy roadmap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyad Al-Aly
- VA St. Louis Health Care System, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Hannah Davis
- Patient-led Research Collaborative, Calabasas, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Akiko Iwasaki
- Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Eric J Topol
- Scripps Institute, San Diego, California, CA, USA
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Wang Y, Su B, Alcalde-Herraiz M, Barclay NL, Tian Y, Li C, Wareham NJ, Paredes R, Xie J, Prieto-Alhambra D. Modifiable lifestyle factors and the risk of post-COVID-19 multisystem sequelae, hospitalization, and death. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6363. [PMID: 39075060 PMCID: PMC11286928 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50495-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective prevention strategies for post-COVID complications are crucial for patients, clinicians, and policy makers to mitigate their cumulative burden. This study evaluated the association of modifiable lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol intake, BMI, physical activity, sedentary time, sleep duration, and dietary habits) with COVID-19 multisystem sequelae, death, and hospitalization in the UK Biobank cohort (n = 68,896). A favorable lifestyle (6-10 healthy factors; 46.4%) was associated with a 36% lower risk of multisystem sequelae (HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.58-0.69; ARR at 210 days, 7.08%; 95% CI, 5.98-8.09) compared to an unfavorable lifestyle (0-4 factors; 12.3%). Risk reductions spanned all 10 organ systems, including cardiovascular, coagulation, metabolic, gastrointestinal, kidney, mental health, musculoskeletal, respiratory disorders, and fatigue. This beneficial effect was largely attributable to direct lifestyle impacts independent of corresponding pre-infection comorbidities (71% for any sequelae). A favorable lifestyle was also related to the risk of post-COVID death (HR 0.59, 0.52-0.66) and hospitalization (HR 0.78, 0.73-0.84). These associations persisted across acute and post-acute infection phases, irrespective of hospitalization status, vaccination, or SARS-CoV-2 variant. These findings underscore the clinical and public health importance of adhering to a healthy lifestyle in mitigating long-term COVID-19 adverse impacts and enhancing future pandemic preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhe Wang
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Binbin Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Marta Alcalde-Herraiz
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre Oxford, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicola L Barclay
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre Oxford, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yaohua Tian
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunxiao Li
- Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicholas J Wareham
- Medical Research Council Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Roger Paredes
- Department of Infectious Diseases & irsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Catalonia, Spain
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, US
| | - Junqing Xie
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre Oxford, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Daniel Prieto-Alhambra
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre Oxford, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Medical Informatics, Erasmus Medical Center University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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6
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Bustamante C, Pinilla Bonilla LB, Restrepo JC. Neurological symphony: post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, an innovative pathophysiological exploration from neuraltherapeutic medicine. Front Integr Neurosci 2024; 18:1417856. [PMID: 39070159 PMCID: PMC11275269 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2024.1417856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has affected 771 million people and caused 6.9 million confirmed deaths as of November 2023. Beyond the adversity, a crucial and less-explored chapter unfolds: adaptive sequelae. These have altered social, mental, and emotional conditions, leaving an imprint on biological systems. While some cases fully resolve the pathological process post-acute infection, others persist with symptoms, posing a challenge that underscores the need to comprehend pathophysiology from innovative perspectives. The article delves into “Long COVID” or Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome (PACS), where symptoms persist for ≥4 weeks irrespective of initial severity. Risk factors include a history of severe illness, in-hospital management, and intensive care. This article also explores theories, derived from various experimental models, that have demonstrated the involvement of the nervous system in coordination with the psychoneuroimmunoendocrine axes in the expression of inflammation. It is posited that PACS involves processes of peripheral and central sensitization (corticalization), facilitating dishomeostasis and the chronicity of the inflammatory process. In this context, various therapeutic strategies grounded in modulating the inflammatory reflex are reviewed, primarily through the infiltration of local anesthetics via linear and non-linear approaches. Neural therapeutic use is considered to stimulate the regulatory inflammatory circuits coordinated by the neuroimmune-endocrine system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Bustamante
- Institute for Advanced Integrative Medicine, Medellin, Colombia
- Faculty of Medicine, National University of Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Laura Bibiana Pinilla Bonilla
- Institute for Advanced Integrative Medicine, Medellin, Colombia
- Research and Innovation Center, Integrated Subnetwork of Health Services of South, Bogotá, Colombia
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Ashmawy R, Hammouda EA, El-Maradny YA, Aboelsaad I, Hussein M, Uversky VN, Redwan EM. Interplay between Comorbidities and Long COVID: Challenges and Multidisciplinary Approaches. Biomolecules 2024; 14:835. [PMID: 39062549 PMCID: PMC11275036 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Long COVID, a name often given to the persistent symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, poses a multifaceted challenge for health. This review explores the intrinsic relationship between comorbidities and autoimmune responses in shaping the trajectory of long COVID. Autoantibodies have emerged as significant players in COVID-19 pathophysiology, with implications for disease severity and progression. Studies show immune dysregulation persisting months after infection, marked by activated innate immune cells and high cytokine levels. The presence of autoantibodies against various autoantigens suggests their potential as comorbid factors in long COVID. Additionally, the formation of immune complexes may lead to severe disease progression, highlighting the urgency for early detection and intervention. Furthermore, long COVID is highly linked to cardiovascular complications and neurological symptoms, posing challenges in diagnosis and management. Multidisciplinary approaches, including vaccination, tailored rehabilitation, and pharmacological interventions, are used for mitigating long COVID's burden. However, numerous challenges persist, from evolving diagnostic criteria to addressing the psychosocial impact and predicting disease outcomes. Leveraging AI-based applications holds promise in enhancing patient management and improving our understanding of long COVID. As research continues to unfold, unravelling the complexities of long COVID remains paramount for effective intervention and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Ashmawy
- Clinical Research Administration, Directorate of Health Affairs, Ministry of Health and Population, Alexandria 21554, Egypt; (R.A.); (I.A.); (M.H.)
- Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt;
| | - Esraa Abdellatif Hammouda
- Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt;
- Clinical Research Department, El-Raml Pediatric Hospital, Ministry of Health and Population, Alexandria 21563, Egypt
| | - Yousra A. El-Maradny
- Pharmaceutical and Fermentation Industries Development Center, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg EL-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt;
- Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), El-Alamein Campus, Aswan 51718, Egypt
| | - Iman Aboelsaad
- Clinical Research Administration, Directorate of Health Affairs, Ministry of Health and Population, Alexandria 21554, Egypt; (R.A.); (I.A.); (M.H.)
| | - Mai Hussein
- Clinical Research Administration, Directorate of Health Affairs, Ministry of Health and Population, Alexandria 21554, Egypt; (R.A.); (I.A.); (M.H.)
| | - Vladimir N. Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Elrashdy M. Redwan
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Therapeutic and Protective Proteins Laboratory, Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, New Borg EL-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt
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Weigel B, Eaton-Fitch N, Thapaliya K, Marshall-Gradisnik S. Illness presentation and quality of life in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and post COVID-19 condition: a pilot Australian cross-sectional study. Qual Life Res 2024:10.1007/s11136-024-03710-3. [PMID: 38961009 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-024-03710-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC), being persistent COVID-19 symptoms, is reminiscent of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)-a chronic multi-systemic illness characterised by neurocognitive, autonomic, endocrinological and immunological disturbances. This novel cross-sectional investigation aims to: (1) compare symptoms among people with ME/CFS (pwME/CFS) and people with PCC (pwPCC) to inform developing PCC diagnostic criteria; and (2) compare health outcomes between patients and people without acute or chronic illness (controls) to highlight the illness burdens of ME/CFS and PCC. METHODS Sociodemographic and health outcome data were collected from n = 61 pwME/CFS, n = 31 pwPCC and n = 54 controls via validated, self-administered questionnaires, including the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule version 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0). PwME/CFS and pwPCC also provided self-reported severity and frequency of symptoms derived from the Canadian and International Consensus Criteria for ME/CFS and the World Health Organization case definition for PCC. RESULTS Both illness cohorts similarly experienced key ME/CFS symptoms. Few differences in symptoms were observed, with memory disturbances, muscle weakness, lymphadenopathy and nausea more prevalent, light-headedness more severe, unrefreshed sleep more frequent, and heart palpitations less frequent among pwME/CFS (all p < 0.05). The ME/CFS and PCC participants' SF-36v2 or WHODAS 2.0 scores were comparable (all p > 0.05); however, both cohorts returned significantly lower scores in all SF-36v2 and WHODAS 2.0 domains when compared with controls (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSION This Australian-first investigation demonstrates the congruent and debilitating nature of ME/CFS and PCC, thereby emphasising the need for multidisciplinary care to maximise patient health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna Weigel
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia.
- Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia.
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia.
| | - Natalie Eaton-Fitch
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
- Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
| | - Kiran Thapaliya
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
- Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
| | - Sonya Marshall-Gradisnik
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
- Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
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Broughan J, Sietiņš E, Emily Siu KY, Clendennen N, Collins C, Fawsitt R, Lambert JS, Savinelli S, Skeffington S, McCombe G, Cullen W. Enhancing long COVID care in general practice: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306077. [PMID: 38924005 PMCID: PMC11207167 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research suggests that general practice can play an important role in managing long COVID. However, studies investigating the perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) and patients are lacking and knowledge regarding optimal long COVID care in general practice is therefore limited. AIM To investigate GPs' and patients' perspectives on the topic of long COVID and its management in general practice. METHODS Brief questionnaires (GP n = 11, Patient n = 7) and in-depth semi-structured interviews (GP n = 10, Patient n = 7) were conducted with GPs and patients from Irish general practices during July 2022-January 2023. Interviews were conducted via telephone and audio recordings were transcribed. A phenomenological analysis involving reflexive thematic analysis and constant comparison techniques was adopted. RESULTS Analysis of interviews with GPs (male = 7, female = 3; median age = 50yrs (IQR = 39.5-56)) and patients (males = 2, female = 5; median age = 58yrs (IQR = 45-62yrs) generated four themes. These were (1) Complex presentations (2) the value of standardising care, (3) choosing the right path, and (4) supportive and collaborative doctor-patient relationships. Strong agreement was observed among GPs and patients regarding the need for holistic and integrated multidisciplinary care. Supportive and collaborative doctor-patient relationships were largely well received by GPs and patients also. GPs strongly endorsed standardising long COVID care operations. CONCLUSION GPs and patients indicated that structured, integrated, and collaborative care can help optimise long COVID management in general practice. GPs are advised to incorporate these elements into their long COVID care practices going forward. Future research examining stakeholder's perspectives using larger and longitudinal samples is advised to enhance the generalisability of evidence in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Broughan
- Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emīls Sietiņš
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Nia Clendennen
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- The Coombe Family Practice, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claire Collins
- Irish College of General Practitioners, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Ronan Fawsitt
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Castle Gardens Surgery, Kilkenny, Ireland
- Ireland East Hospital Group, Dublin, Ireland
| | - John S. Lambert
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- The Rotunda Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stefano Savinelli
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Geoff McCombe
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Walter Cullen
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Otuonye DT. Sunak's plans to reform the fit note system are flawed and short sighted. BMJ 2024; 385:q1132. [PMID: 38777355 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q1132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
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Sunkersing D, Ramasawmy M, Alwan NA, Clutterbuck D, Mu Y, Horstmanshof K, Banerjee A, Heightman M. What is current care for people with Long COVID in England? A qualitative interview study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080967. [PMID: 38760030 PMCID: PMC11107429 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate current care for people with Long COVID in England. DESIGN In-depth, semistructured interviews with people living with Long COVID and Long COVID healthcare professionals; data analysed using thematic analysis. SETTING National Health Service England post-COVID-19 services in six clinics from November 2022 to July 2023. PARTICIPANTS 15 healthcare professionals and 21 people living with Long COVID currently attending or discharged (18 female; 3 male). RESULTS Health professionals and people with lived experience highlighted the multifaceted nature of Long COVID, including its varied symptoms, its impact on people's lives and the complexity involved in managing this condition. These impacts encompass physical, social, mental and environmental dimensions. People with Long COVID reported barriers in accessing primary care, as well as negative general practitioner consultations where they felt unheard or invalidated, though some positive interactions were also noted. Peer support or support systems proved highly valuable and beneficial for individuals, aiding their recovery and well-being. Post-COVID-19 services were viewed as spaces where overlooked voices found validation, offering more than medical expertise. Despite initial challenges, healthcare providers' increasing expertise in diagnosing and treating Long COVID has helped refine care approaches for this condition. CONCLUSION Long COVID care in England is not uniform across all locations. Effective communication, specialised expertise and comprehensive support systems are crucial. A patient-centred approach considering the unique complexities of Long COVID, including physical, mental health, social and environmental aspects is needed. Sustained access to post-COVID-19 services is imperative, with success dependent on offering continuous rehabilitation beyond rapid recovery, acknowledging the condition's enduring impacts and complexities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sunkersing
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mel Ramasawmy
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nisreen A Alwan
- Academic Unit of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Donna Clutterbuck
- Academic Unit of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Yi Mu
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Amitava Banerjee
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Melissa Heightman
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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O'Connor RJ, Parkin A, Mir G, Mullard J, Baley S, Ceolta-Smith J, Rayner C. Work and vocational rehabilitation for people living with long covid. BMJ 2024; 385:e076508. [PMID: 38729647 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-076508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Rory J O'Connor
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK R.J.O'
- National Demonstration Centre in Rehabilitation, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds
| | - Amy Parkin
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- National Demonstration Centre in Rehabilitation, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds
| | - Ghazala Mir
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds
| | | | - Sareeta Baley
- Patient author, Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham
| | | | - Clare Rayner
- Patient author, LOCOMOTION Patient Advisory Group co-lead
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Garmoe W, Rao K, Gorter B, Kantor R. Neurocognitive Impairment in Post-COVID-19 Condition in Adults: Narrative Review of the Current Literature. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2024; 39:276-289. [PMID: 38520374 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus has, up to the time of this article, resulted in >770 million cases of COVID-19 illness worldwide, and approximately 7 million deaths, including >1.1 million in the United States. Although defined as a respiratory virus, early in the pandemic, it became apparent that considerable numbers of people recovering from COVID-19 illness experienced persistence or new onset of multi-system health problems, including neurologic and cognitive and behavioral health concerns. Persistent multi-system health problems are defined as Post-COVID-19 Condition (PCC), Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19, or Long COVID. A significant number of those with PCC report cognitive problems. This paper reviews the current state of scientific knowledge on persisting cognitive symptoms in adults following COVID-19 illness. A brief history is provided of the emergence of concerns about persisting cognitive problems following COVID-19 illness and the definition of PCC. Methodologic factors that complicate clear understanding of PCC are reviewed. The review then examines research on patterns of cognitive impairment that have been found, factors that may contribute to increased risk, behavioral health variables, and interventions being used to ameliorate persisting symptoms. Finally, recommendations are made about ways neuropsychologists can improve the quality of existing research.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Garmoe
- Director of Psychology, MedStar National Rehabilitation Network, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kavitha Rao
- Clinical Neuropsychologist, MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bethany Gorter
- Neuropsychology Post-Doctoral Fellow, MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rachel Kantor
- Neuropsychology Post-Doctoral Fellow, MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
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14
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Greenhalgh T, Darbyshire JL, Lee C, Ladds E, Ceolta-Smith J. What is quality in long covid care? Lessons from a national quality improvement collaborative and multi-site ethnography. BMC Med 2024; 22:159. [PMID: 38616276 PMCID: PMC11017565 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03371-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long covid (post covid-19 condition) is a complex condition with diverse manifestations, uncertain prognosis and wide variation in current approaches to management. There have been calls for formal quality standards to reduce a so-called "postcode lottery" of care. The original aim of this study-to examine the nature of quality in long covid care and reduce unwarranted variation in services-evolved to focus on examining the reasons why standardizing care was so challenging in this condition. METHODS In 2021-2023, we ran a quality improvement collaborative across 10 UK sites. The dataset reported here was mostly but not entirely qualitative. It included data on the origins and current context of each clinic, interviews with staff and patients, and ethnographic observations at 13 clinics (50 consultations) and 45 multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings (244 patient cases). Data collection and analysis were informed by relevant lenses from clinical care (e.g. evidence-based guidelines), improvement science (e.g. quality improvement cycles) and philosophy of knowledge. RESULTS Participating clinics made progress towards standardizing assessment and management in some topics; some variation remained but this could usually be explained. Clinics had different histories and path dependencies, occupied a different place in their healthcare ecosystem and served a varied caseload including a high proportion of patients with comorbidities. A key mechanism for achieving high-quality long covid care was when local MDTs deliberated on unusual, complex or challenging cases for which evidence-based guidelines provided no easy answers. In such cases, collective learning occurred through idiographic (case-based) reasoning, in which practitioners build lessons from the particular to the general. This contrasts with the nomothetic reasoning implicit in evidence-based guidelines, in which reasoning is assumed to go from the general (e.g. findings of clinical trials) to the particular (management of individual patients). CONCLUSION Not all variation in long covid services is unwarranted. Largely because long covid's manifestations are so varied and comorbidities common, generic "evidence-based" standards require much individual adaptation. In this complex condition, quality improvement resources may be productively spent supporting MDTs to optimise their case-based learning through interdisciplinary discussion. Quality assessment of a long covid service should include review of a sample of individual cases to assess how guidelines have been interpreted and personalized to meet patients' unique needs. STUDY REGISTRATION NCT05057260, ISRCTN15022307.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK.
| | - Julie L Darbyshire
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Cassie Lee
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Emma Ladds
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Jenny Ceolta-Smith
- LOCOMOTION Patient Advisory Group and Lived Experience Representative, London, UK
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15
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Fang C, Baz SA, Sheard L, Carpentieri JD. "They seemed to be like cogs working in different directions": a longitudinal qualitative study on Long COVID healthcare services in the United Kingdom from a person-centred lens. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:406. [PMID: 38561719 PMCID: PMC10986002 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10891-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges to the already over-stretched healthcare system in the United Kingdom (UK). These challenges are particularly pronounced for people living with the novel condition of Long COVID (LC) as they often face persistent and fluctuating symptoms, encountering prolonged uncertainty when seeking medical support. Despite a growing understanding of the healthcare challenges associated with LC, existing qualitative studies have predominantly focused on individual experiences rather than examining the structural aspects of healthcare. METHODS A longitudinal qualitative study with 80 participants and 12 healthcare practitioners was conducted in the UK to explore the healthcare experiences of those with LC. In total, 178 interviews (with attrition) were collected across two rounds, from November 2021 to March 2022, and from June to October 2022. RESULTS Embracing a person-centred framework that recognises and nurtures interconnected individual, relational, and existential needs, we investigated healthcare experiences related to LC across primary, secondary, and specialist integrated care. Using this perspective, we identified three overarching themes. Theme 1 addresses the persistent hurdle of accessing primary care as the initial point of contact for LC healthcare; Theme 2 underscores the complexity of navigating secondary care; and Theme 3 encapsulates the distinctive challenges of developing LC integrated care. These themes are interlinked, as people with LC often had to navigate or struggle between the various systems, with practitioners seeking to collaborate across the breadth of their professional responsibilities. CONCLUSION From a person-centred approach, we were able to identify the needs of those affected by lasting LC symptoms and comprehend how health services intricately influence these needs. The focus on healthcare systems also captures the nuanced impact that continuing healthcare struggles can have on people's identity. As such, our findings provide evidence to inform a more effective and sustainable delivery of person-centred care for people with LC across various healthcare settings and over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Fang
- Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | | | - Laura Sheard
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - J D Carpentieri
- Department of Education, Practice and Society, Institute of Education, University College London, London, UK
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16
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Ahmed S, Ahmad E, Ahmad B, Arif MH, Ilyas HMA, Hashmi N, Ahmad S. Long COVID-19 and primary care: Challenges, management and recommendations. Semergen 2024; 50:102188. [PMID: 38306758 DOI: 10.1016/j.semerg.2023.102188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Long COVID-19, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is characterized by persistent symptoms after COVID-19 onset. This article explores the challenges, management strategies, and recommendations for addressing long COVID-19 in primary care settings. The epidemiology of long COVID-19 reveals significant variability, with a substantial portion of COVID-19 survivors experiencing post-acute symptoms. Pathophysiological mechanisms include viral persistence, endothelial dysfunction, autoimmunity, neurological dysregulation, and gastrointestinal dysbiosis. Multiple risk factors, including age, sex, pre-existing comorbidities, smoking, BMI, and acute COVID-19 severity, influence the development of long COVID-19. Effective management requires proactive measures such as vaccination, identification of high-risk populations, public awareness, and post-infection vaccination. Collaboration of primary care physicians with specialists is essential for holistic and individualized patient care. This article underscores the role of primary care physicians in diagnosing, managing, and mitigating the long-term effects of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ahmed
- FMH College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - E Ahmad
- FMH College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - B Ahmad
- D.G. Khan Medical College, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - M H Arif
- D.G. Khan Medical College, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan
| | - H M A Ilyas
- Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - N Hashmi
- D.G. Khan Medical College, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan; Allama Iqbal Teaching Hospital, DG Khan, Pakistan
| | - S Ahmad
- D.G. Khan Medical College, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan; Allama Iqbal Teaching Hospital, DG Khan, Pakistan
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17
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Nakano Y, Sunada N, Tokumasu K, Honda H, Otsuka Y, Sakurada Y, Matsuda Y, Hasegawa T, Omura D, Ochi K, Yasuda M, Hagiya H, Ueda K, Otsuka F. Occult endocrine disorders newly diagnosed in patients with post-COVID-19 symptoms. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5446. [PMID: 38443459 PMCID: PMC10914791 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55526-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Determination of long COVID requires ruling out alternative diagnoses, but there has been no report on the features of alternative diagnoses. This study was a single-center retrospective study of outpatients who visited our clinic between February 2021 and June 2023 that was carried out to determine the characteristics of alternative diagnoses in patients with post-COVID-19 symptoms. In a total of 731 patients, 50 patients (6.8%) were newly diagnosed with 52 diseases requiring medical intervention, and 16 (32%) of those 50 patients (2.2% of the total) were considered to have priority for treatment of the newly diagnosed disorders over long COVID treatment. The proportion of patients with a new diagnosis increased with advance of age, with 15.7% of the patients aged 60 years or older having a new diagnosis. Endocrine and metabolic diseases and hematological and respiratory diseases were the most common, being detected in eight patients (16%) each. Although 35 of the 52 diseases (67%) were related to their symptoms, endocrine and metabolic diseases were the least associated with specific symptoms. Other disorders that require attention were found especially in elderly patients with symptomatic long COVID. Thus, appropriate assessment and differentiation from alternative diagnoses are necessary for managing long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Nakano
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan.
| | - Naruhiko Sunada
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kazuki Tokumasu
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Honda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Yuki Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Yasue Sakurada
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Yui Matsuda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Toru Hasegawa
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Daisuke Omura
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kanako Ochi
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Miho Yasuda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hideharu Hagiya
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Keigo Ueda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama, 700-8558, Japan
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Haag L, Richardson J, Haig C, Cunningham Y, Fraser H, Brosnahan N, Ibbotson T, Ormerod J, White C, McIntosh E, O'Donnell K, Sattar N, McConnachie A, Lean M, Blane D, Combet E. Baseline Characteristics in the Remote Diet Intervention to REduce long-COVID Symptoms Trial (ReDIRECT). NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2024; 4:7. [PMID: 39145102 PMCID: PMC11320183 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13522.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Background The persistence of symptoms for ≥12 weeks after a COVID-19 infection is known as Long COVID (LC), a condition with unclear pathophysiology and no proven treatments to date. Living with obesity is a risk factor for LC and has symptoms which may overlap with and aggravate LC. Methods ReDIRECT is a remotely delivered trial assessing whether weight management can reduce LC symptoms. We recruited people with LC and BMI >27kg/m 2. The intervention was delivered remotely by dietitians, with online data collection (medical and dietary history, COVID-19 infection and vaccination, body composition, LC history/symptoms, blood pressure, quality of life, sociodemographic data). Participants self-selected the dominant LC symptoms they most wanted to improve from the intervention. Results Participants (n=234) in England (64%) and Scotland (30%) were mainly women (85%) of white ethnicity (90%), with 13% living in the 20% most deprived areas, a mean age of 46 (SD10) years, and median BMI of 35kg/m 2 (IQR 32-40). Before starting the study, 30% reported more than one COVID-19 infection (82% confirmed with one or more positive tests). LC Diagnosis was mainly by GPs (71%), other healthcare professionals (9%), or self-diagnosed (21%). The median total number of symptoms was 6 (IQR 4-8). Self-selected dominant LC symptoms included fatigue (54%), breathlessness (16%), pain (12%), anxiety/depression (1%) and "other" (17%). At baseline, 82% were taking medication, 57% reported 1+ other medical conditions. Quality of life was poor; 20% were on long-term sick leave or reduced working hours. Most (92%) reported having gained weight since contracting COVID-19 (median weight change +11.5 kg, range -11.5 to +45.3 kg). Conclusions Symptoms linked to LC and overweight are diverse and complex. Remote trial delivery enabled rapid recruitment across the UK yet certain groups (e.g. men and those from ethnic minority groups) were under-represented. Trial registration ISRCTN registry ( ISRCTN12595520, 25/11/2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Haag
- Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G31 2ER, UK
| | - Janice Richardson
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Caroline Haig
- Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Yvonne Cunningham
- General Practice & Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Heather Fraser
- Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | | | - Tracy Ibbotson
- General Practice & Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | | | | | - Emma McIntosh
- Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Kate O'Donnell
- General Practice & Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Naveed Sattar
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Alex McConnachie
- Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Mike Lean
- Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G31 2ER, UK
| | - David Blane
- General Practice & Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Emilie Combet
- Human Nutrition, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, G31 2ER, UK
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19
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Gheorghita R, Soldanescu I, Lobiuc A, Caliman Sturdza OA, Filip R, Constantinescu – Bercu A, Dimian M, Mangul S, Covasa M. The knowns and unknowns of long COVID-19: from mechanisms to therapeutical approaches. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1344086. [PMID: 38500880 PMCID: PMC10944866 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1344086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been defined as the greatest global health and socioeconomic crisis of modern times. While most people recover after being infected with the virus, a significant proportion of them continue to experience health issues weeks, months and even years after acute infection with SARS-CoV-2. This persistence of clinical symptoms in infected individuals for at least three months after the onset of the disease or the emergence of new symptoms lasting more than two months, without any other explanation and alternative diagnosis have been named long COVID, long-haul COVID, post-COVID-19 conditions, chronic COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Long COVID has been characterized as a constellation of symptoms and disorders that vary widely in their manifestations. Further, the mechanisms underlying long COVID are not fully understood, which hamper efficient treatment options. This review describes predictors and the most common symptoms related to long COVID's effects on the central and peripheral nervous system and other organs and tissues. Furthermore, the transcriptional markers, molecular signaling pathways and risk factors for long COVID, such as sex, age, pre-existing condition, hospitalization during acute phase of COVID-19, vaccination, and lifestyle are presented. Finally, recommendations for patient rehabilitation and disease management, as well as alternative therapeutical approaches to long COVID sequelae are discussed. Understanding the complexity of this disease, its symptoms across multiple organ systems and overlapping pathologies and its possible mechanisms are paramount in developing diagnostic tools and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Gheorghita
- Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Iuliana Soldanescu
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation for Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, Manufacturing and Control Distributed Systems (MANSiD), University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Andrei Lobiuc
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Olga Adriana Caliman Sturdza
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Suceava Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Suceava, Romania
| | - Roxana Filip
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Suceava Emergency Clinical County Hospital, Suceava, Romania
| | - Adela Constantinescu – Bercu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, Hemostasis Research Unit, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
| | - Mihai Dimian
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation for Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, Manufacturing and Control Distributed Systems (MANSiD), University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Department of Computer, Electronics and Automation, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
| | - Serghei Mangul
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, USC Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mihai Covasa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Biological Science, University of Suceava, Suceava, Romania
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pomona, CA, United States
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Lee C, Greenwood DC, Master H, Balasundaram K, Williams P, Scott JT, Wood C, Cooper R, Darbyshire JL, Gonzalez AE, Davies HE, Osborne T, Corrado J, Iftekhar N, Rogers N, Delaney B, Greenhalgh T, Sivan M. Prevalence of orthostatic intolerance in long covid clinic patients and healthy volunteers: A multicenter study. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29486. [PMID: 38456315 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Orthostatic intolerance (OI), including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) and orthostatic hypotension (OH), are often reported in long covid, but published studies are small with inconsistent results. We sought to estimate the prevalence of objective OI in patients attending long covid clinics and healthy volunteers and associations with OI symptoms and comorbidities. Participants with a diagnosis of long covid were recruited from eight UK long covid clinics, and healthy volunteers from general population. All undertook standardized National Aeronautics and Space Administration Lean Test (NLT). Participants' history of typical OI symptoms (e.g., dizziness, palpitations) before and during the NLT were recorded. Two hundred seventy-seven long covid patients and 50 frequency-matched healthy volunteers were tested. Healthy volunteers had no history of OI symptoms or symptoms during NLT or PoTS, 10% had asymptomatic OH. One hundred thirty (47%) long covid patients had previous history of OI symptoms and 144 (52%) developed symptoms during the NLT. Forty-one (15%) had an abnormal NLT, 20 (7%) met criteria for PoTS, and 21 (8%) had OH. Of patients with an abnormal NLT, 45% had no prior symptoms of OI. Relaxing the diagnostic thresholds for PoTS from two consecutive abnormal readings to one abnormal reading during the NLT, resulted in 11% of long covid participants (an additional 4%) meeting criteria for PoTS, but not in healthy volunteers. More than half of long covid patients experienced OI symptoms during NLT and more than one in 10 patients met the criteria for either PoTS or OH, half of whom did not report previous typical OI symptoms. We therefore recommend all patients attending long covid clinics are offered an NLT and appropriate management commenced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie Lee
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Harsha Master
- Covid Assessment and Rehabilitation Service, Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust, Welwyn Garden City, UK
| | - Kumaran Balasundaram
- NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Respiratory & Infection Theme, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, UK
| | - Paul Williams
- Covid Assessment and Rehabilitation Service, Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust, Welwyn Garden City, UK
| | - Janet T Scott
- Development and Innovation Department, NHS Highlands, Inverness, UK
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - Conor Wood
- Birmingham Community Healthcare, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rowena Cooper
- Development and Innovation Department, NHS Highlands, Inverness, UK
| | - Julie L Darbyshire
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Helen E Davies
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Thomas Osborne
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | - Joanna Corrado
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | - Nafi Iftekhar
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Brendan Delaney
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College, Faculty of Medicine, London, UK
| | - Trish Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Manoj Sivan
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK
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21
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Ose DJ, Gardner E, Millar M, Curtin A, Wu J, Zhang M, Schaefer C, Wang J, Leiser J, Stoesser K, Kiraly B. A cross-sectional and population-based study from primary care on post-COVID-19 conditions in non-hospitalized patients. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2024; 4:24. [PMID: 38383883 PMCID: PMC10881566 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-024-00440-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current research on post-COVID-19 conditions (PCC) has focused on hospitalized COVID-19 patients, and often lacks a comparison group. This study assessed the prevalence of PCC in non-hospitalized COVID-19 primary care patients compared to primary care patients not diagnosed with COVID-19. METHODS This cross-sectional, population-based study (n = 2539) analyzed and compared the prevalence of PCC in patients with a positive COVID-19 test (n = 1410) and patients with a negative COVID-19 test (n = 1129) never hospitalized for COVID-19 related conditions. Participants were identified using electronic health records and completed an electronic questionnaire, available in English and Spanish, including 54 potential post COVID-19 symptoms. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the association of PCC with COVID-19. RESULTS Post-COVID-19 conditions are prevalent in both groups, and significantly more prevalent in patients with COVID-19. Strong significant differences exist for the twenty most reported conditions, except for anxiety. Common conditions are fatigue (59.5% (COVID-19 positive) vs. 41.3% (COVID-19 negative); OR 2.15 [1.79-2.60]), difficulty sleeping (52.1% (positive) vs. 41.9% (negative); OR 1.42 [1.18-1.71]) and concentration problems (50.6% (positive) vs 28.5% (negative); OR 2.64 [2.17-3.22]). Similar disparities in prevalence are also observed after comparing two groups (positive vs. negative) by age, sex, time since testing, and race/ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS PCC is highly prevalent in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients in primary care. However, it is important to note that PCC strongly overlaps with common health symptoms seen in primary care, including fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and headaches, which makes the diagnosis of PCC in primary care even more challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik J Ose
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Westsächsische Hochschule - Zwickau, Faculty of Health and Healthcare Science, Zwickau, Germany
| | - Elena Gardner
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Morgan Millar
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Andrew Curtin
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jiqiang Wu
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mingyuan Zhang
- University of Utah Health, Data Science Services, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Camie Schaefer
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jennifer Leiser
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kirsten Stoesser
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bernadette Kiraly
- University of Utah Health, School of Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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22
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Ladds E, Darbyshire JL, Bakerly ND, Falope Z, Tucker-Bell I. Cognitive dysfunction after covid-19. BMJ 2024; 384:e075387. [PMID: 38302141 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-075387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Ladds
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Julie L Darbyshire
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Nawar Diar Bakerly
- The Northern Care Alliance, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester
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23
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Boyarchuk O, Volianska L. Autoimmunity and long COVID in children. Reumatologia 2024; 61:492-501. [PMID: 38322108 PMCID: PMC10839920 DOI: 10.5114/reum/176464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous hypotheses regarding the pathogenetic mechanisms of long COVID have been proposed. Immune dysregulation and autoimmunity are among the leading hypotheses. In this article, we present two clinical cases of long COVID. The first case demonstrates the phenotype of long COVID with pain and musculoskeletal symptoms, which is often associated with autoimmunity and mimics systemic connective tissue diseases. In the second case, a high titer of antinuclear antibodies was observed after SARS-CoV-2 infection, but the clinical symptoms were limited to fever and headache. Only a comprehensive evaluation of clinical symptoms and thorough objective examination can confirm or exclude autoimmune diseases after a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. A systematic search in the PubMed Medline database was carried out for studies focusing on immune dysregulation, autoimmunity, and its association with the clinical phenotype of long COVID. The question of the role of autoimmunity in the development of long COVID and the management approaches are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Boyarchuk
- Department of Children's Diseases and Pediatric Surgery, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ukraine
| | - Liubov Volianska
- Department of Children's Diseases and Pediatric Surgery, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ukraine
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24
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Tavares-Júnior JWL, Ciurleo GCV, Feitosa EDAAF, Oriá RB, Braga-Neto P. The Clinical Aspects of COVID and Alzheimer's Disease: A Round-Up of Where Things Stand and Are Headed. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 99:1159-1171. [PMID: 38848177 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
The link between long COVID-19 and brain/cognitive impairments is concerning and may foster a worrisome worldwide emergence of novel cases of neurodegenerative diseases with aging. This review aims to update the knowledge, crosstalk, and possible intersections between the Post-COVID Syndrome (PCS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). References included in this review were obtained from PubMed searches conducted between October 2023 and November 2023. PCS is a very heterogenous and poorly understood disease with recent evidence of a possible association with chronic diseases such as AD. However, more scientific data is required to establish the link between PCS and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriella Cunha Vieira Ciurleo
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Neurology Section, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
- Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, Laboratory of the Biology of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Reinaldo B Oriá
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Neurology Section, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
- Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, Laboratory of the Biology of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Pedro Braga-Neto
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Neurology Section, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
- Center of Health Sciences, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
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25
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Corrado J, Iftekhar N, Halpin S, Li M, Tarrant R, Grimaldi J, Simms A, O'Connor RJ, Casson A, Sivan M. HEART Rate Variability Biofeedback for LOng COVID Dysautonomia (HEARTLOC): Results of a Feasibility Study. ADVANCES IN REHABILITATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2024; 13:27536351241227261. [PMID: 38298551 PMCID: PMC10826406 DOI: 10.1177/27536351241227261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Post-COVID-19 syndrome, or Long Covid (LC) refers to symptoms persisting 12 weeks after the COVID-19 infection. LC comprises a wide range of dysautonomia symptoms, including fatigue, breathlessness, palpitations, dizziness, pain and brain fog. This study tested the feasibility and estimated the efficacy, of a Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback (HRV-B) programme via a standardised slow diaphragmatic breathing technique in individuals with LC. Methods LC patients underwent a 4-week HRV-B intervention for 10 minutes twice daily for 4 weeks using the Polar H10 ECG (Electrocardiogram) chest strap and Elite HRV phone application. Outcome measures C19-YRSm (Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale modified), Composite Autonomic Symptom Score (COMPASS-31), WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS), EQ5D-5L (EuroQol 5 Dimensions) and Root Mean Square of Successive Differences between heartbeats (RMSSD) using a Fitbit device were recorded before and after the intervention. The study was pre-registered at clinicaltrials.gov NCT05228665. Results A total of 13 participants (54% female, 46% male) completed the study with high levels of independent use of technology, data completeness and intervention adherence. There was a statistically significant improvement in C19YRS-m (P = .001), COMPASS-31 (P = .007), RMSSD (P = .047), WHODAS (P = .02) and EQ5D Global Health Score (P = .009). Qualitative feedback suggested participants could use it independently, were satisfied with the intervention and reported beneficial effects from the intervention. Conclusion HRV-B using diaphragmatic breathing is a feasible intervention for LC. The small sample size limits generalisability. HRV-B in LC warrants further exploration in a larger randomised controlled study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Corrado
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Long COVID Rehabilitation Service, Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
- National Demonstration Centre of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Nafi Iftekhar
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Stephen Halpin
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Long COVID Rehabilitation Service, Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
- National Demonstration Centre of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Mengyao Li
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachel Tarrant
- Long COVID Rehabilitation Service, Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Jennifer Grimaldi
- Long COVID Rehabilitation Service, Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Alexander Simms
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Department of Cardiology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Rory J O'Connor
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- National Demonstration Centre of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Alex Casson
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Manoj Sivan
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Long COVID Rehabilitation Service, Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
- National Demonstration Centre of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
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26
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Lerner A, Benzvi C, Vojdani A. HLA-DQ2/8 and COVID-19 in Celiac Disease: Boon or Bane. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2977. [PMID: 38138121 PMCID: PMC10745744 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic continues to pose a global threat. While its virulence has subsided, it has persisted due to the continual emergence of new mutations. Although many high-risk conditions related to COVID-19 have been identified, the understanding of protective factors remains limited. Intriguingly, epidemiological evidence suggests a low incidence of COVID-19-infected CD patients. The present study explores whether their genetic background, namely, the associated HLA-DQs, offers protection against severe COVID-19 outcomes. We hypothesize that the HLA-DQ2/8 alleles may shield CD patients from SARS-CoV-2 and its subsequent effects, possibly due to memory CD4 T cells primed by previous exposure to human-associated common cold coronaviruses (CCC) and higher affinity to those allele's groove. In this context, we examined potential cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 epitopes and human-associated CCC and assessed the binding affinity (BA) of these epitopes to HLA-DQ2/8. Using computational methods, we analyzed sequence similarity between SARS-CoV-2 and four distinct CCC. Of 924 unique immunodominant 15-mer epitopes with at least 67% identity, 37 exhibited significant BA to HLA-DQ2/8, suggesting a protective effect. We present various mechanisms that might explain the protective role of HLA-DQ2/8 in COVID-19-afflicted CD patients. If substantiated, these insights could enhance our understanding of the gene-environment enigma and viral-host relationship, guiding potential therapeutic innovations against the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Lerner
- The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262160, Israel;
- Research Department, Ariel University, Ariel 4077625, Israel
| | - Carina Benzvi
- The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262160, Israel;
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27
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Tufts J, Guan N, Zemedikun DT, Subramanian A, Gokhale K, Myles P, Williams T, Marshall T, Calvert M, Matthews K, Nirantharakumar K, Jackson LJ, Haroon S. The cost of primary care consultations associated with long COVID in non-hospitalised adults: a retrospective cohort study using UK primary care data. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:245. [PMID: 37986044 PMCID: PMC10662438 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02196-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The economic impact of managing long COVID in primary care is unknown. We estimated the costs of primary care consultations associated with long COVID and explored the relationship between risk factors and costs. METHODS Data were obtained on non-hospitalised adults from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum primary care database. We used propensity score matching with an incremental cost method to estimate additional primary care consultation costs associated with long COVID (12 weeks after COVID-19) at an individual and UK national level. We applied multivariable regression models to estimate the association between risk factors and consultations costs beyond 12 weeks from acute COVID-19. RESULTS Based on an analysis of 472,173 patients with COVID-19 and 472,173 unexposed individuals, the annual incremental cost of primary care consultations associated with long COVID was £2.44 per patient and £23,382,452 at the national level. Among patients with COVID-19, a long COVID diagnosis and reporting of longer-term symptoms were associated with a 43% and 44% increase in primary care consultation costs respectively, compared to patients without long COVID symptoms. Older age, female sex, obesity, being from a white ethnic group, comorbidities and prior consultation frequency were all associated with increased primary care consultation costs. CONCLUSIONS The costs of primary care consultations associated with long COVID in non-hospitalised adults are substantial. Costs are significantly higher among those diagnosed with long COVID, those with long COVID symptoms, older adults, females, and those with obesity and comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Tufts
- University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, Lancashire, LA9 7RG, UK
| | - Naijie Guan
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Dawit T Zemedikun
- School of Population and Global Health (M431), The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Anuradhaa Subramanian
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Krishna Gokhale
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Puja Myles
- Clinical Practice Research Datalink, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, London, E14 4PU, UK
| | - Tim Williams
- Clinical Practice Research Datalink, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, London, E14 4PU, UK
| | - Tom Marshall
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Melanie Calvert
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Birmingham Health Partners Centre for Regulatory Science and Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) West Midlands, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Birmingham, CV4 7AJ, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Birmingham and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TH, UK
- NIHR Birmingham-Oxford Blood and Transplant Research Unit (BTRU) in Precision Transplant and Cellular Therapeutics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Karen Matthews
- Long Covid SOS, Charity Registered in England & Wales, 11A Westland Road, Faringdon, SN7 7EX, Oxfordshire, UK
| | | | - Louise J Jackson
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Shamil Haroon
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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28
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Fontana JM, Alito A, Piterà P, Verme F, Cattaldo S, Cornacchia M, Mai S, Brunani A, Capodaglio P. Whole-Body Cryostimulation in Post-COVID Rehabilitation for Patients with Obesity: A Multidisciplinary Feasibility Study. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3092. [PMID: 38002092 PMCID: PMC10669700 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11113092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A post-COVID condition can reduce activity and quality of life, resulting in a significant socioeconomic and health burden. Understanding its impact on patients' health is important for the development of personalized rehabilitation interventions. An independent association between obesity and post-COVID condition was found because of complications and comorbidities. METHODS Sixteen patients with obesity and post-COVID symptoms (i.e., dyspnea, pain, poor sleep quality, muscle fatigue), admitted to the Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piancavallo (VB), Italy, were recruited for a four-week rehabilitation program including conventional exercise therapy, nutritional intervention, psychological support and whole-body cryostimulation (WBC). RESULTS All participants attended all sessions of the program. Anthropometric data showed statistically significant changes in weight, waist circumference and body mass index. Biochemical analyses showed significant reductions in lipid and inflammatory profiles. There was a significant improvement in physical performance, reduction in pain and improvement in psychological well-being. CONCLUSION A multidisciplinary rehabilitation protocol including WBC, designed for patients with obesity and a post-COVID condition, is safe and feasible. The overall improvements demonstrate that multidisciplinary rehabilitation was effective on post COVID patients and suggest that the use of WBC is safe and could play a role as a booster in rehabilitation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Maria Fontana
- Research Laboratory in Biomechanics, Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy; (P.P.); (F.V.); (A.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Angelo Alito
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Paolo Piterà
- Research Laboratory in Biomechanics, Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy; (P.P.); (F.V.); (A.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Federica Verme
- Research Laboratory in Biomechanics, Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy; (P.P.); (F.V.); (A.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Stefania Cattaldo
- Laboratory of Clinical Neurobiology, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy;
| | - Mauro Cornacchia
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Department, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy;
| | - Stefania Mai
- Laboratory of Metabolic Research, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy;
| | - Amelia Brunani
- Research Laboratory in Biomechanics, Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy; (P.P.); (F.V.); (A.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Paolo Capodaglio
- Research Laboratory in Biomechanics, Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Giuseppe Hospital, 28824 Piancavallo, Italy; (P.P.); (F.V.); (A.B.); (P.C.)
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Torino, 10121 Torino, Italy
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29
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Kostka K, Roel E, Trinh NTH, Mercadé-Besora N, Delmestri A, Mateu L, Paredes R, Duarte-Salles T, Prieto-Alhambra D, Català M, Jödicke AM. "The burden of post-acute COVID-19 symptoms in a multinational network cohort analysis". Nat Commun 2023; 14:7449. [PMID: 37978296 PMCID: PMC10656441 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42726-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Persistent symptoms following the acute phase of COVID-19 present a major burden to both the affected and the wider community. We conducted a cohort study including over 856,840 first COVID-19 cases, 72,422 re-infections and more than 3.1 million first negative-test controls from primary care electronic health records from Spain and the UK (Sept 2020 to Jan 2022 (UK)/March 2022 (Spain)). We characterised post-acute COVID-19 symptoms and identified key symptoms associated with persistent disease. We estimated incidence rates of persisting symptoms in the general population and among COVID-19 patients over time. Subsequently, we investigated which WHO-listed symptoms were particularly differential by comparing their frequency in COVID-19 cases vs. matched test-negative controls. Lastly, we compared persistent symptoms after first infections vs. reinfections.Our study shows that the proportion of COVID-19 cases affected by persistent post-acute COVID-19 symptoms declined over the study period. Risk for altered smell/taste was consistently higher in patients with COVID-19 vs test-negative controls. Persistent symptoms were more common after reinfection than following a first infection. More research is needed into the definition of long COVID, and the effect of interventions to minimise the risk and impact of persistent symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Kostka
- Pharmaco- and Device Epidemiology Group, CSM, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Roel
- I Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nhung T H Trinh
- PharmacoEpidemiology and Drug Safety Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Núria Mercadé-Besora
- I Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonella Delmestri
- Pharmaco- and Device Epidemiology Group, CSM, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lourdes Mateu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain
| | - Roger Paredes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain
- irsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute, Badalona, Spain
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Talita Duarte-Salles
- I Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medical Informatics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Prieto-Alhambra
- Pharmaco- and Device Epidemiology Group, CSM, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
- Department of Medical Informatics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Martí Català
- Pharmaco- and Device Epidemiology Group, CSM, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Annika M Jödicke
- Pharmaco- and Device Epidemiology Group, CSM, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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30
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Congdon S, Narrowe Z, Yone N, Gunn J, Deng Y, Nori P, Cowman K, Islam M, Rikin S, Starrels J. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and risk of long COVID symptoms: a retrospective cohort study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19688. [PMID: 37951998 PMCID: PMC10640584 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46912-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
We conducted a retrospective cohort study to assess whether treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was associated with a reduced risk of long COVID. We enrolled 500 adults with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 who were eligible for nirmatrelvir/ritonavir; 250 who took nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and 250 who did not. The primary outcome was the development of one or more of eleven prespecified long COVID symptoms, assessed through a structured telephone interview four months after the positive SARS-CoV-2 test. Multivariable logistic regression models controlled for age, sex, race/ethnicity, chronic conditions, and COVID-19 vaccination status. We found that participants who took nirmatrelvir/ritonavir were no less likely to develop long COVID symptoms, compared to those who did not take the medication (44% vs. 49.6%, p = 0.21). Taking nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was associated with a lower odds of two of the eleven long COVID symptoms, brain fog (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.38-0.88) and chest pain/tightness (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.28-0.91). Our finding that treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was not associated with a lower risk of developing long COVID is different from prior studies that obtained data only from electronic medical records.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Congdon
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA.
| | - Zev Narrowe
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Nang Yone
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jacob Gunn
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Yuting Deng
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Priya Nori
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Kelsie Cowman
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Marjan Islam
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Sharon Rikin
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
| | - Joanna Starrels
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY, 10467, USA
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31
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Fedorowski A, Olsén MF, Nikesjö F, Janson C, Bruchfeld J, Lerm M, Hedman K. Cardiorespiratory dysautonomia in post-COVID-19 condition: Manifestations, mechanisms and management. J Intern Med 2023; 294:548-562. [PMID: 37183186 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
A significant proportion of COVID-19 patients experience debilitating symptoms for months after the acute infection. According to recent estimates, approximately 1 out of 10 COVID-19 convalescents reports persistent health issues more than 3 months after initial recovery. This 'post-COVID-19 condition' may include a large variety of symptoms from almost all domains and organs, and for some patients it may mean prolonged sick-leave, homestay and strongly limited activities of daily life. In this narrative review, we focus on the symptoms and signs of post-COVID-19 condition in adults - particularly those associated with cardiovascular and respiratory systems, such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome or airway disorders - and explore the evidence for chronic autonomic dysfunction as a potential underlying mechanism. The most plausible hypotheses regarding cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the wide spectrum of observed symptoms - such as lingering viruses, persistent inflammation, impairment in oxygen sensing systems and circulating antibodies directed to blood pressure regulatory components - are discussed. In addition, an overview of currently available pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Fedorowski
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Monika Fagevik Olsén
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation/Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Frida Nikesjö
- Department of Respiratory Medicine in Linköping, and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Christer Janson
- Department of Medical Sciences: Respiratory, Allergy and Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Judith Bruchfeld
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Lerm
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kristofer Hedman
- Department of Clinical Physiology in Linköping, and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Li J, Zhou Y, Ma J, Zhang Q, Shao J, Liang S, Yu Y, Li W, Wang C. The long-term health outcomes, pathophysiological mechanisms and multidisciplinary management of long COVID. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:416. [PMID: 37907497 PMCID: PMC10618229 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01640-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There have been hundreds of millions of cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). With the growing population of recovered patients, it is crucial to understand the long-term consequences of the disease and management strategies. Although COVID-19 was initially considered an acute respiratory illness, recent evidence suggests that manifestations including but not limited to those of the cardiovascular, respiratory, neuropsychiatric, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems may persist long after the acute phase. These persistent manifestations, also referred to as long COVID, could impact all patients with COVID-19 across the full spectrum of illness severity. Herein, we comprehensively review the current literature on long COVID, highlighting its epidemiological understanding, the impact of vaccinations, organ-specific sequelae, pathophysiological mechanisms, and multidisciplinary management strategies. In addition, the impact of psychological and psychosomatic factors is also underscored. Despite these crucial findings on long COVID, the current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies based on previous experience and pilot studies remain inadequate, and well-designed clinical trials should be prioritized to validate existing hypotheses. Thus, we propose the primary challenges concerning biological knowledge gaps and efficient remedies as well as discuss the corresponding recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwei Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiechao Ma
- AI Lab, Deepwise Healthcare, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Postgraduate Student, West China Hospital, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jun Shao
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shufan Liang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yizhou Yu
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Weimin Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Chengdi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Med-X Center for Manufacturing, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Boito D, Eklund A, Tisell A, Levi R, Özarslan E, Blystad I. MRI with generalized diffusion encoding reveals damaged white matter in patients previously hospitalized for COVID-19 and with persisting symptoms at follow-up. Brain Commun 2023; 5:fcad284. [PMID: 37953843 PMCID: PMC10638510 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcad284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
There is mounting evidence of the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the central nervous system, with patients experiencing diverse symptoms, often suggesting brain involvement. Conventional brain MRI of these patients shows unspecific patterns, with no clear connection of the symptomatology to brain tissue abnormalities, whereas diffusion tensor studies and volumetric analyses detect measurable changes in the brain after COVID-19. Diffusion MRI exploits the random motion of water molecules to achieve unique sensitivity to structures at the microscopic level, and new sequences employing generalized diffusion encoding provide structural information which are sensitive to intravoxel features. In this observational study, a total of 32 persons were investigated: 16 patients previously hospitalized for COVID-19 with persisting symptoms of post-COVID condition (mean age 60 years: range 41-79, all male) at 7-month follow-up and 16 matched controls, not previously hospitalized for COVID-19, with no post-COVID symptoms (mean age 58 years, range 46-69, 11 males). Standard MRI and generalized diffusion encoding MRI were employed to examine the brain white matter of the subjects. To detect possible group differences, several tissue microstructure descriptors obtainable with the employed diffusion sequence, the fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity, radial diffusivity, microscopic anisotropy, orientational coherence (Cc) and variance in compartment's size (CMD) were analysed using the tract-based spatial statistics framework. The tract-based spatial statistics analysis showed widespread statistically significant differences (P < 0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons using the familywise error rate) in all the considered metrics in the white matter of the patients compared to the controls. Fractional anisotropy, microscopic anisotropy and Cc were lower in the patient group, while axial diffusivity, radial diffusivity, mean diffusivity and CMD were higher. Significant changes in fractional anisotropy, microscopic anisotropy and CMD affected approximately half of the analysed white matter voxels located across all brain lobes, while changes in Cc were mainly found in the occipital parts of the brain. Given the predominant alteration in microscopic anisotropy compared to Cc, the observed changes in diffusion anisotropy are mostly due to loss of local anisotropy, possibly connected to axonal damage, rather than white matter fibre coherence disruption. The increase in radial diffusivity is indicative of demyelination, while the changes in mean diffusivity and CMD are compatible with vasogenic oedema. In summary, these widespread alterations of white matter microstructure are indicative of vasogenic oedema, demyelination and axonal damage. These changes might be a contributing factor to the diversity of central nervous system symptoms that many patients experience after COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deneb Boito
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Centre for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anders Eklund
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Centre for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Division of Statistics and Machine learning, Department of Computer and Information Science, Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anders Tisell
- Centre for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Radiation Physics, Linköping University, S-58185 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, S58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Richard Levi
- Centre for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, S58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine in Linköping, Linköping University, S-58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Evren Özarslan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Centre for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ida Blystad
- Centre for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, S-58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, S58183 Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Radiology in Linköping, Linköping University, S-58185 Linköping, Sweden
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Matveeva N, Kiselev I, Baulina N, Semina E, Kakotkin V, Agapov M, Kulakova O, Favorova O. Shared genetic architecture of COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1287322. [PMID: 37927339 PMCID: PMC10625425 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1287322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the сoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have become a global health threat. At the height of the pandemic, major efforts were focused on reducing COVID-19-associated morbidity and mortality. Now is the time to study the long-term effects of the pandemic, particularly cognitive impairment associated with long COVID. In recent years much attention has been paid to the possible relationship between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, which is considered a main cause of age-related cognitive impairment. Genetic predisposition was shown for both COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease. However, the analysis of the similarity of the genetic architecture of these diseases is usually limited to indicating a positive genetic correlation between them. In this review, we have described intrinsic linkages between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, pointed out shared susceptibility genes that were previously identified in genome-wide association studies of both COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, and highlighted a panel of SNPs that includes candidate genetic risk markers of the long COVID-associated cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Matveeva
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan Kiselev
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia Baulina
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Semina
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Viktor Kakotkin
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Mikhail Agapov
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Olga Kulakova
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Favorova
- Institute of Medicine and Life Science, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Institute of Translational Medicine, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Barker-Davies RM, O'Sullivan O, Holdsworth DA, Ladlow P, Houston A, Chamley R, Greenhalgh A, Nicol ED, Bennett AN. How long is Long-COVID? Symptomatic improvement between 12 and 18 months in a prospective cohort study. BMJ Mil Health 2023:e002500. [PMID: 37788921 DOI: 10.1136/military-2023-002500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 infection can precede, in a proportion of patients, a prolonged syndrome including fatigue, exercise intolerance, mood and cognitive problems. This study aimed to describe the profile of fatigue-related, exercise-related, mood-related and cognitive-related outcomes in a COVID-19-exposed group compared with controls. METHODS 113 serving UK Armed Forces participants were followed up at 5, 12 (n=88) and 18 months (n=70) following COVID-19. At 18 months, 56 were in the COVID-19-exposed group with 14 matched controls. Exposed participants included hospitalised (n=25) and community (n=31) managed participants. 43 described at least one of the six most frequent symptoms at 5 months: fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, joint pain, exercise intolerance and anosmia. Participants completed a symptom checklist, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), the National Institute for Health cognitive battery and a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). PROMs included the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Patient Checklist-5 (PCL-5) for post-traumatic stress. RESULTS At 5 and 12 months, exposed participants presented with higher PHQ-9, PCL-5 and FAS scores than controls (ES (effect size) ≥0.25, p≤0.04). By 12 months, GAD-7 was not significantly different to controls (ES <0.13, p=0.292). Remaining PROMs lost significant difference by 18 months (ES ≤0.11, p≥0.28). No significant differences in the cognitive scales were observed at any time point (F=1.96, p=0.167). At 5 and 12 months, exposed participants recorded significantly lower distances on the 6MWT (ηp 2≥0.126, p<0.01). 6MWT distance lost significant difference by 18 months (ηp 2<0.039, p>0.15). CONCLUSIONS This prospective cohort-controlled study observed adverse outcomes in depression, post-traumatic stress, fatigue and submaximal exercise performance up to 12 months but improved by 18-month follow-up, in participants exposed to COVID-19 compared with a matched control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Barker-Davies
- Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation, Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Loughborough, UK
- School of Sport Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - O O'Sullivan
- Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation, Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Loughborough, UK
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - D A Holdsworth
- Academic Department of Military Medicine, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK
- Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - P Ladlow
- Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation, Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Loughborough, UK
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - A Houston
- Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation, Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Loughborough, UK
| | - R Chamley
- Academic Department of Military Medicine, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK
- Oxford Heart Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - A Greenhalgh
- Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation, Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Loughborough, UK
| | - E D Nicol
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Brompton Hospital, Birmingham, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A N Bennett
- Academic Department of Military Rehabilitation, Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Loughborough, UK
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Su S, Zhao Y, Zeng N, Liu X, Zheng Y, Sun J, Zhong Y, Wu S, Ni S, Gong Y, Zhang Z, Gao N, Yuan K, Yan W, Shi L, Ravindran AV, Kosten T, Shi J, Bao Y, Lu L. Epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and management of long COVID: an update. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4056-4069. [PMID: 37491461 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02171-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The increasing number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections have highlighted the long-term consequences of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection called long COVID. Although the concept and definition of long COVID are described differently across countries and institutions, there is general agreement that it affects multiple systems, including the immune, respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neuropsychological, musculoskeletal, and other systems. This review aims to provide a synthesis of published epidemiology, symptoms, and risk factors of long COVID. We also summarize potential pathophysiological mechanisms and biomarkers for precise prevention, early diagnosis, and accurate treatment of long COVID. Furthermore, we suggest evidence-based guidelines for the comprehensive evaluation and management of long COVID, involving treatment, health systems, health finance, public attitudes, and international cooperation, which is proposed to improve the treatment strategies, preventive measures, and public health policy making of long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sizhen Su
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Yimiao Zhao
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Scholl of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Zeng
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Scholl of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxing Liu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Yongbo Zheng
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Pain Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Shuilin Wu
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Scholl of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuyu Ni
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Scholl of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yimiao Gong
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibo Zhang
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Nan Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Le Shi
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Arun V Ravindran
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Thomas Kosten
- Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanping Bao
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Scholl of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Lu
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.
- National Institute on Drug Dependence and Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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León-Herrera S, Magallón-Botaya R, Oliván-Blázquez B, Sagarra-Romero L, Jaurrieta CM, Méndez-López F. Online multimodal rehabilitation programme to improve symptoms and quality of life for adults diagnosed with long COVID-19: a Randomised Clinical Trial protocol. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1222888. [PMID: 37744502 PMCID: PMC10513419 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1222888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Long COVID is a multisystemic condition which affects quality of life and implies a multidisciplinary treatment approach. There is still limited evidence on management techniques for this syndrome. "Telerehabilitation" could be an important tool when addressing the symptoms of this patients with the aim of increasing their quality of life. The purpose of this trial is to analyse the effectiveness of an online multimodal rehabilitation programme to improve the symptomatology of people with long COVID and their quality of life. Methods A pragmatic randomised controlled trial will be performed with two parallel groups: (1) usual treatment by the primary care practitioner (Treatment as usual, TAU; control group) and (2) TAU plus the use of an online multimodal rehabilitation programme, including videoconferences and content published on a Moodle platform (intervention group). The data will be collected before and after the intervention. A follow-up will take place 3 months later. Discussion There is still a lack of knowledge regarding the management of the symptoms of long COVID. This creates the need to add scientific evidence about the care of this disease, considering that multidisciplinary social and health teams can offer the necessary care so that these patients can recover their previous quality of life.Clinical trial registration: The protocol for this study was registered with the ISRCTN Registry [registration number: ISRCTN15414370] on 28 December 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra León-Herrera
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosa Magallón-Botaya
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Bárbara Oliván-Blázquez
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Lucía Sagarra-Romero
- GAIAS Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Zaragoza, Spain
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Rivera-Cavazos A, Luviano-García JA, Garza-Silva A, Morales-Rodríguez DP, Kuri-Ayache M, Sanz-Sánchez MÁ, Santos-Macías JE, Romero-Ibarguengoitia ME, González-Cantú A. Analyzing the Interplay between COVID-19 Viral Load, Inflammatory Markers, and Lymphocyte Subpopulations on the Development of Long COVID. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2241. [PMID: 37764085 PMCID: PMC10536598 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The global impact of the SARS-CoV-2 infection has been substantial, affecting millions of people. Long COVID, characterized by persistent or recurrent symptoms after acute infection, has been reported in over 40% of patients. Risk factors include age and female gender, and various mechanisms, including chronic inflammation and viral persistence, have been implicated in long COVID's pathogenesis. However, there are scarce studies in which multiple inflammatory markers and viral load are analyzed simultaneously in acute infection to determine how they predict for long COVID at long-term follow-up. This study explores the association between long COVID and inflammatory markers, viral load, and lymphocyte subpopulation during acute infection in hospitalized patients to better understand the risk factors of this disease. This longitudinal retrospective study was conducted in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in northern Mexico. Inflammatory parameters, viral load, and lymphocyte subpopulation during the acute infection phase were analyzed, and long COVID symptoms were followed up depending on severity and persistence (weekly or monthly) and assessed 1.5 years after the acute infection. This study analyzed 79 patients, among them, 41.8% presented long COVID symptoms, with fatigue being the most common (45.5%). Patients with long COVID had higher lymphocyte levels during hospitalization, and NK cell subpopulation levels were also associated with long COVID. ICU admission during acute COVID-19 was also linked to the development of long COVID symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Rivera-Cavazos
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Research Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico;
| | - José Antonio Luviano-García
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Arnulfo Garza-Silva
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Research Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico;
| | - Devany Paola Morales-Rodríguez
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Research Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico;
| | - Mauricio Kuri-Ayache
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Miguel Ángel Sanz-Sánchez
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Research Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico;
| | - Juan Enrique Santos-Macías
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Maria Elena Romero-Ibarguengoitia
- Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García 66238, Nuevo León, Mexico; (A.R.-C.)
- Research Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico;
| | - Arnulfo González-Cantú
- Research Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico;
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Clínica Nova de Monterrey, San Nicolás de los Garza 66450, Nuevo León, Mexico
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Mammas IN, Drysdale SB, Charalampous C, Koletsi P, Papatheodoropoulou A, Koutsaftiki C, Sergentanis T, Merakou K, Kornarou H, Papaioannou G, Kramvis A, Greenough A, Theodoridou M, Spandidos DA. Navigating paediatric virology through the COVID‑19 era (Review). Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:83. [PMID: 37503745 PMCID: PMC10555476 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The present review article presents the key messages of the 8th Workshop on Paediatric Virology organised virtually by the Institute of Paediatric Virology based on the island of Euboea in Greece. The major topics covered during the workshop were the following: i) New advances in antiviral agents and vaccines against cytomegalovirus; ii) hantavirus nephropathy in children; iii) human rhinovirus infections in children requiring paediatric intensive care; iv) complications and management of human adenovirus infections; v) challenges of post‑coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) syndrome in children and adolescents; and vi) foetal magnetic resonance imaging in viral infections involving the central nervous system. The COVID‑19 era requires a more intensive, strategic, global scientific effort in the clinic and in the laboratory, focusing on the diagnosis, management and prevention of viral infections in neonates and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis N. Mammas
- Department of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion
- First Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Athens, 11527 Athens
- Paediatric Clinic, Aliveri, 34500 Island of Euboea, Greece
| | - Simon B. Drysdale
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, St. George's, University of London, London SW17 0RE
- Department of Paediatrics, St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London SW17 0QT, UK
| | | | - Patra Koletsi
- Department of Paediatrics, 'Penteli' Children's Hospital, 15236 Palaia Penteli
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), 'Penteli' Children's Hospital, 15236 Palaia Penteli
| | | | - Chryssie Koutsaftiki
- COVID-19 Reference Centre, 'Rafina' Health Care Centre, 19009 Rafina
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens
| | - Theodoros Sergentanis
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens
| | - Kyriakoula Merakou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens
| | - Helen Kornarou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521 Athens
| | - Georgia Papaioannou
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, 'Mitera' Children's Hospital, 15123 Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anne Greenough
- Division of Asthma, Allergy and Lung Biology, King's College London, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Maria Theodoridou
- First Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Athens, 11527 Athens
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Department of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion
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Colas C, Le Berre Y, Fanget M, Savall A, Killian M, Goujon I, Labeix P, Bayle M, Féasson L, Roche F, Hupin D. Physical Activity in Long COVID: A Comparative Study of Exercise Rehabilitation Benefits in Patients with Long COVID, Coronary Artery Disease and Fibromyalgia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6513. [PMID: 37569053 PMCID: PMC10418371 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20156513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Exercise in long COVID is poorly studied. Nevertheless, exerciserehabilitation could improve cardiorespiratory, muscular and autonomic functions. We aimed to investigate improvement in physical and autonomic performances of long COVID patients (n = 38) after a 4-week exercise rehabilitation program (3 sessions/week) compared to two control groups composed of coronary artery disease (n = 38) and fibromyalgia patients (n = 38), two populations for whom exercise benefits are well known. Efficacy of exercise training was assessed by a cardiopulmonary exercise test, a handgrip force test, and a supine heart rate variability recording at rest before and after the rehabilitation program. Cardiorespiratory and muscular parameters were enhanced after exercise rehabilitation in the three groups (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed for the autonomic variables. Through this comparative study with control groups, we confirm and reinforce the interest of caring for long COVID patients without post-exertional symptom exacerbation by exercise rehabilitation of both strength and endurance training, by personalizing the program to the patient and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Colas
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- INSERM, U1059, DVH Team, SAINBIOSE, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Yann Le Berre
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- Jacques Lisfranc Medicine Faculty, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Marie Fanget
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- INSERM, U1059, DVH Team, SAINBIOSE, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Angélique Savall
- INSERM, U1059, DVH Team, SAINBIOSE, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- Department of Education and Research in General Practice, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Martin Killian
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- CIRI-Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie, Team GIMAP, Jean Monnet University, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Inserm, U1111, CNRS, UMR530, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- CIC 1408 Inserm, University Hospital Centre of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Ivan Goujon
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Pierre Labeix
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- INSERM, U1059, DVH Team, SAINBIOSE, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Manon Bayle
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Léonard Féasson
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, EA 7424, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Frederic Roche
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- INSERM, U1059, DVH Team, SAINBIOSE, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - David Hupin
- Department of Clinical and Exercise Physiology, University Hospital Center of Saint-Etienne, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
- INSERM, U1059, DVH Team, SAINBIOSE, Jean Monnet University, 42000 Saint-Etienne, France
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41
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Barshikar S, Laguerre M, Gordon P, Lopez M. Integrated Care Models for Long Coronavirus Disease. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2023; 34:689-700. [PMID: 37419540 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Professional or governmental agencies and organizations have developed guidelines to define the problem and evaluate and manage patients with Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS CoV-2 (PASC). Multidisciplinary models largely exist in academic centers and larger cities; however, most care for PASC patients is provided by the primary care providers. The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation has been in the forefront in releasing consensus statements as a part of the long COVID collaborative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surendra Barshikar
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5161 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9055, USA.
| | - Martin Laguerre
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5161 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9055, USA
| | - Patricia Gordon
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5161 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9055, USA
| | - Marielisa Lopez
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5161 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9055, USA
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Kabir MF, Yin KN, Jeffree MS, Ahmedy FB, Jahan S, Islam MW, Jahid IK, Sivan M, Chakrovorty SK, Hossain KMA. Profile of long COVID symptoms needing rehabilitation: a cross-sectional household survey of 12,925 SARS-CoV-2 cases between July and December 2021 in Bangladesh. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:132. [PMID: 37461092 PMCID: PMC10351147 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01140-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS It is important to determine the profile of long COVID (LC) symptoms within the scope of rehabilitation in Bangladesh. This study's objective was to estimate the newly experienced long COVID symptoms needing rehabilitation by determining the prevalence and spectrum of impairments due to LC in Bangladesh. METHODS A Cross-sectional household survey of 12,925 COVID-19 patients confirmed by RT-PCR from 24 testing facilities in Bangladesh. LC was diagnosed according to WHO working group definition. COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale (C19-YRS) was used to determine the symptom responses, symptom severity, new long COVID symptoms, and scope of rehabilitation. RESULTS The population proportion of LC symptoms requiring rehabilitation interventions are 0.22 [95% CI, 0.20-0.24] in Bangladeshi people diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2. Among them, 0.08 [95% CI, 0.07-0.09] had mild, 0.07 [95% CI, 0.06-0.09] had moderate, and 0.05 [95% CI, 0.04-0.06] had severe long COVID symptoms (LCS). There was a significant positive correlation between LCS and functional disabilities (r = 0.889, p < 0.001), while a negative correlation was observed between the severity of symptoms and overall health (r=-0.658, p < 0.001). In comparison to the pre-COVID status, 17 new LCS were observed and the increase in the scope of rehabilitation intervention among LCS ranged between 0.01 [95% CI, 0.001-0.01] and 0.21 [95% CI, 0.19-0.22]. In Bangladesh, 59% (n = 334) of the LC cases are out of reach for any rehabilitation interventions. CONCLUSION Nearly one-fourth of Bangladeshi Post-COVID-19 have long COVID (LC). Seventeen symptoms (LCS) were observed and more than half of the populations having long COVID are out of reach of any rehabilitation facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Feroz Kabir
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Khin Nyein Yin
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia.
| | - Mohammad Saffree Jeffree
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Fatimah Binti Ahmedy
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88400, Malaysia
| | - Sharmila Jahan
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Md Waliul Islam
- Department of Physiotherapy, Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Iqbal Kabir Jahid
- Department of Microbiology, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Manoj Sivan
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Sonjit Kumar Chakrovorty
- Department of Microbiology, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - K M Amran Hossain
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
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Rabady S, Hoffmann K, Aigner M, Altenberger J, Brose M, Costa U, Denk-Linnert DM, Gruber S, Götzinger F, Helbok R, Hüfner K, Koczulla R, Kurz K, Lamprecht B, Leis S, Löffler J, Müller CA, Rittmannsberger H, Rommer PS, Sator P, Strenger V, Struhal W, Untersmayr E, Vonbank K, Wancata J, Weber T, Wendler M, Zwick RH. [S1 guidelines for the management of postviral conditions using the example of post-COVID-19]. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2023; 135:525-598. [PMID: 37555900 PMCID: PMC10504206 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-023-02242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
These S1 guidelines are an updated and expanded version of the S1 guidelines on long COVID differential diagnostic and management strategies. They summarize the state of knowledge on postviral conditions like long/post COVID at the time of writing. Due to the dynamic nature of knowledge development, they are intended to be "living guidelines". The focus is on practical applicability at the level of primary care, which is understood to be the appropriate place for initial access and for primary care and treatment. The guidelines provide recommendations on the course of treatment, differential diagnostics of the most common symptoms that can result from infections like with SARS-CoV-2, treatment options, patient management and care, reintegration and rehabilitation. The guidelines have been developed through an interdisciplinary and interprofessional process and provide recommendations on interfaces and possibilities for collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Rabady
- Department Allgemeine Gesundheitsstudien, Kompetenzzentrum für Allgemein- und Familienmedizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich.
| | - Kathryn Hoffmann
- Leiterin der Abteilung Primary Care Medicine, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Martin Aigner
- Abteilung für Psychiatrie und psychotherapeutische Medizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich
| | - Johann Altenberger
- Pensionsversicherungsanstalt, Rehabilitationszentrum Großgmain, Salzburger Str. 520, 5084, Großgmain, Österreich
| | - Markus Brose
- Department Allgemeine Gesundheitsstudien, Kompetenzzentrum für Allgemein- und Familienmedizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich
| | - Ursula Costa
- Ergotherapie und Handlungswissenschaft, fhg - Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH/fh, Innrain 98, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Doris-Maria Denk-Linnert
- Klinische Abteilung für Allgemeine Hals‑, Nasen- und Ohrenkrankheiten, Klin. Abteilung Phoniatrie-Logopädie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Samuel Gruber
- Department Allgemeine Gesundheitsstudien, Kompetenzzentrum für Allgemein- und Familienmedizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich
| | - Florian Götzinger
- Abteilung für Kinderheilkunde, Klinik Ottakring, Montleartstr. 37, 1160, Wien, Österreich
| | - Raimund Helbok
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Johannes Kepler Universität Linz, Standort Neuromed Campus & Med Campus Kepler Universitätsklinikum GmbH, 4020, Linz, Österreich
| | - Katharina Hüfner
- Dep. für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie, Psychosomatik und Medizinische Psychologie, Universitätsklinik für Psychiatrie II, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Rembert Koczulla
- Fachbereich Medizin, Klinik für Pneumologie Marburg, Baldingerstr., 35035, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Katharina Kurz
- Innere Medizin II, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Bernd Lamprecht
- Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin mit Schwerpunkt Pneumologie, Kepler Universitätsklinikum, 4020, Linz, Österreich
| | - Stefan Leis
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie der PMU, MME Universitätsklinikum Salzburg Christian-Doppler-Klinik, Ignaz-Harrer-Str. 79, 5020, Salzburg, Österreich
| | - Judith Löffler
- Innere Medizin II, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Christian A Müller
- Klinische Abteilung für Allgemeine Hals‑, Nasen- und Ohrenkrankheiten, Klin. Abteilung für Allgemeine HNO, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | | | - Paulus S Rommer
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Paul Sator
- Dermatologische Abteilung, Klinik Hietzing, Wolkersbergenstr. 1, 1130, Wien, Österreich
| | - Volker Strenger
- Klinische Abteilung für Allgemeinpädiatrie, Universitätsklinik für Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde, Medizinische Universität Graz, 8036, Graz, Österreich
| | - Walter Struhal
- Klinische Abteilung für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Tulln, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Alter Ziegelweg 10, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Österreich
| | - Eva Untersmayr
- Institut für Pathophysiologie und Allergieforschung Zentrum für Pathophysiologie, Infektiologie und Immunologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Karin Vonbank
- Klinische Abteilung für Pulmologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Johannes Wancata
- Klinische Abteilung für Sozialpsychiatrie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Thomas Weber
- Kardiologische Abteilung Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen, Grieskirchnerstr. 42, 4600, Wels, Österreich
| | | | - Ralf-Harun Zwick
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research, Kurbadstr. 14, 1100, Wien, Österreich
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Tsilingiris D, Vallianou NG, Karampela I, Christodoulatos GS, Papavasileiou G, Petropoulou D, Magkos F, Dalamaga M. Laboratory Findings and Biomarkers in Long COVID: What Do We Know So Far? Insights into Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Therapeutic Perspectives and Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10458. [PMID: 37445634 PMCID: PMC10341908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Long COVID (LC) encompasses a constellation of long-term symptoms experienced by at least 10% of people after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, and so far it has affected about 65 million people. The etiology of LC remains unclear; however, many pathophysiological pathways may be involved, including viral persistence; a chronic, low-grade inflammatory response; immune dysregulation and a defective immune response; the reactivation of latent viruses; autoimmunity; persistent endothelial dysfunction and coagulopathy; gut dysbiosis; hormonal and metabolic dysregulation; mitochondrial dysfunction; and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. There are no specific tests for the diagnosis of LC, and clinical features including laboratory findings and biomarkers may not specifically relate to LC. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to develop and validate biomarkers that can be employed for the prediction, diagnosis and prognosis of LC and its therapeutic response, although this effort may be hampered by challenges pertaining to the non-specific nature of the majority of clinical manifestations in the LC spectrum, small sample sizes of relevant studies and other methodological issues. Promising candidate biomarkers that are found in some patients are markers of systemic inflammation, including acute phase proteins, cytokines and chemokines; biomarkers reflecting SARS-CoV-2 persistence, the reactivation of herpesviruses and immune dysregulation; biomarkers of endotheliopathy, coagulation and fibrinolysis; microbiota alterations; diverse proteins and metabolites; hormonal and metabolic biomarkers; and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. At present, there are only two reviews summarizing relevant biomarkers; however, they do not cover the entire umbrella of current biomarkers, their link to etiopathogenetic mechanisms or the diagnostic work-up in a comprehensive manner. Herein, we aim to appraise and synopsize the available evidence on the typical laboratory manifestations and candidate biomarkers of LC, their classification based on pathogenetic mechanisms and the main LC symptomatology in the frame of the epidemiological and clinical aspects of the syndrome and furthermore assess limitations and challenges as well as potential implications in candidate therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Tsilingiris
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Natalia G. Vallianou
- Department of Internal Medicine, Evangelismos General Hospital, 45-47 Ipsilantou Street, 10676 Athens, Greece;
| | - Irene Karampela
- 2nd Department of Critical Care, Medical School, University of Athens, Attikon General University Hospital, 1 Rimini Street, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Georgios Papavasileiou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Dimitra Petropoulou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Faidon Magkos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Frederiksberg, Denmark;
| | - Maria Dalamaga
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece; (G.P.); (D.P.)
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Evans R, Pick A, Lardner R, Masey V, Smith N, Greenhalgh T. Breathing difficulties after covid-19: a guide for primary care. BMJ 2023; 381:e074937. [PMID: 37315957 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-074937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Evans
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre - Respiratory, Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Anton Pick
- Long Covid Clinic, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Rachel Lardner
- Long Covid Clinic, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Vicki Masey
- Long Covid Clinic, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Nikki Smith
- Person with long covid, Windsor, Berkshire, UK
| | - Trisha Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford
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46
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Li G, Hilgenfeld R, Whitley R, De Clercq E. Therapeutic strategies for COVID-19: progress and lessons learned. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:449-475. [PMID: 37076602 PMCID: PMC10113999 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00672-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 177.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has stimulated tremendous efforts to develop therapeutic strategies that target severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and/or human proteins to control viral infection, encompassing hundreds of potential drugs and thousands of patients in clinical trials. So far, a few small-molecule antiviral drugs (nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, remdesivir and molnupiravir) and 11 monoclonal antibodies have been marketed for the treatment of COVID-19, mostly requiring administration within 10 days of symptom onset. In addition, hospitalized patients with severe or critical COVID-19 may benefit from treatment with previously approved immunomodulatory drugs, including glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone, cytokine antagonists such as tocilizumab and Janus kinase inhibitors such as baricitinib. Here, we summarize progress with COVID-19 drug discovery, based on accumulated findings since the pandemic began and a comprehensive list of clinical and preclinical inhibitors with anti-coronavirus activities. We also discuss the lessons learned from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases with regard to drug repurposing strategies, pan-coronavirus drug targets, in vitro assays and animal models, and platform trial design for the development of therapeutics to tackle COVID-19, long COVID and pathogenic coronaviruses in future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangdi Li
- Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University; Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China.
| | - Rolf Hilgenfeld
- Institute of Molecular Medicine & German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - Richard Whitley
- Department of Paediatrics, Microbiology, Medicine and Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Erik De Clercq
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW It is now recognized that SARS-CoV-2 infection can have a long-term impact on health. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding Long COVID in people living with HIV (PLWH). RECENT FINDINGS PLWH may be at elevated risk of experiencing Long COVID. Although the mechanisms contributing to Long COVID are incompletely understood, there are several demographic and clinical factors that might make PLWH vulnerable to developing Long COVID. SUMMARY PLWH should be aware that new or worsening symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection might represent Long COVID. HIV providers should be aware of this clinical entity and be mindful that their patients recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection may be at higher risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Peluso
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94110
| | - Annukka A. R. Antar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
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48
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Yang B, Liu C, Ju X, Wu B, Wang Z, Dong F, Yu Y, Hou X, Fang M, Gao F, Guo X, Gui Y, Ding Q, Li W. A tissue specific-infection mouse model of SARS-CoV-2. Cell Discov 2023; 9:43. [PMID: 37080957 PMCID: PMC10117269 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-023-00536-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models play crucial roles in the rapid development of vaccines/drugs for the prevention and therapy of COVID-19, but current models have some deficits when studying the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 on some special tissues or organs. Here, we generated a human ACE2 and SARS-CoV-2 NF/F knockin mouse line that constitutively expresses human ACE2 and specifically expresses SARS-CoV-2 N gene induced by Cre-recombinase. By crossing with Cre transgenic lines allowing for lung-specific and constitutive expression, we generated lung-specific (Sftpc-hACE2-NF/F) and constitutive SARS-CoV-2 N (EIIa-hACE2-NF/F) expressing mice. Upon intranasal infection with a SARS-CoV-2 GFP/ΔN strain which can only replicate in SARS-CoV-2 N expressed cells, we demonstrated that both the Sftpc-hACE2-NF/F and EIIa-hACE2-NF/F mice support viral replication. Consistent with our design, viral replication was limited to the lung tissues in Sftpc-hACE2-NF/F mice, while the EIIa-hACE2-NF/F mice developed infections in multiple tissues. Furthermore, our model supports different SARS-CoV-2 variants infection, and it can be successfully used to evaluate the effects of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (Ab1F11) and antiviral drugs (Molnupiravir). Finally, to test the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male reproduction, we generated Sertoli cell-specific SARS-CoV-2 N expressed mice by crossing with AMH-Cre transgenic line. We found that SARS-CoV-2 GFP/ΔN strain could infect Sertoli cells, led to spermatogenic defects due to the destruction of blood-testis barrier. Overall, combining with different tissue-specific Cre transgenic lines, the human ACE2 and SARS-CoV-2 NF/F line enables us to evaluate antivirals in vivo and study the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 on some special tissues or organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yang
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Ju
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuangfei Wang
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Fucheng Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanying Yu
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Hou
- Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Min Fang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Qiang Ding
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Lee SM, Friets NR, Tirtajana I, Porter G. Undue Influence from the Family in Declining COVID-19 Vaccination and Treatment for the Elderly Patient. Asian Bioeth Rev 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37361686 PMCID: PMC10088658 DOI: 10.1007/s41649-023-00249-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper examines a patient with borderline mental capacity, where the healthcare team is conflicted about how to proceed. This case demonstrates the complicated intersection between undue influence and mental capacity, allowing us to explore how the law is applied in clinical practice. Patients have the right to decline or accept medical treatments offered to them. In Singapore, family members perceive a right to be involved in the decision-making process for sick and elderly patients. Elderly patients, dependent on mainly family members for care and support, sometimes submit to their overbearing influence resulting in decisions that fail to protect the patients' own best interests. However, the clinicians' own well-intentioned influence, driven by a desire for the best medical outcome can also be undue, and neither influence should seek to be a substitution for the patient's decision. Following Re BKR [2015] SGCA 26, we are now obliged to examine how mental capacity can be affected by undue influence. A lack of capacity can be found when a patient fails to appreciate the presence of undue influence or is susceptible to undue influence due to their mental impairment causing their will to be overborne. This then paves the way for the health care team to decide based on best interests, because the patient is determined to be lacking in mental capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- See Muah Lee
- Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Neal Ryan Friets
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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50
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Laskovski L, Felcar JM, Fillis MMA, Trelha CS. Risk factors associated with limited functional status among out-of-hospital patients 30 days and one year after a diagnosis of COVID-19: a cohort study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3584. [PMID: 36869060 PMCID: PMC9982776 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30674-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Some people experience indefinitely persistent and disabling symptoms after acute COVID-19, even those who have not been hospitalized. The purpose of this study was to analyze the long-term health consequences at 30 days and one year among people who were not hospitalized after a diagnosis of COVID-19 and to analyze which variables predict limitations in functional status. This is a prospective cohort study with non-hospitalized adults infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the city of Londrina. After 30 days and one year of the acute symptoms of COVID-19, participants received the questionnaire through a social media that consisted of sociodemographic data and data on functionality through the Post-COVID Functional State Scale (PCFS)-the primary outcome of the study "presence of functional status limitation" was grouped into without functional status limitation (value: zero) and with functional limitation (value 1 to 4), fatigue through of the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and dyspnea using the modified Borg scale. In the statistical analysis, multivariable analysis was performed. Statistical significance was set to 5%. Of 140 individuals analyzed, 103 (73.6%) were female with a median age of 35.5 (27-46) years. One year after the diagnosis of COVID-19, 44.3% had at least one self-reported symptom: memory loss (13.6%), gloominess (8.6%), anosmia (7.9%), body pain (7.1%), ageusia (7%), headache (6.4%), and cough (3.6%). According to the FSS and modified Borg scale 42.9% reported fatigue and 18.6% reported dyspnea, respectively. As for functionality, 40.7% reported some limitation, being 24.3% negligible functional limitation, 14.3% slight and 2.1% moderate according to the PCFS. There was a univariate association between the presence of limitation in the functional status with the female sex, diagnosis of anxiety and depression, presence of persistent symptoms after one year, fatigue and dyspnea. In the multivariable analysis, the predictor variables for functional status limitation were female sex, diagnosis of anxiety/depression, presence of at least one persistent symptom and fatigue one year after the diagnosis of COVID-19. One year after the disease, the patients presented functional limitation according to the PCFS, even without hospitalization. Risk factors associated with functional limitation include female sex, presence of fatigue, anxiety and depression, and at least one persistent symptom after one year of COVID-19 diagnosis.
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