Follow-up evaluation of long COVID syndrome in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Abstract

Background: Long COVID, which refers to persistent symptoms following acute COVID-19, is being increasingly reported. However, available data regarding its prevalence and characteristics are limited. This study was conducted to evaluate the occurrence and presentation of long COVID in patients with COVID-19 who were followed up in outpatient, ward, or intensive care settings.

Methods: This study included patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 at least four weeks prior to the start of the study. The patients underwent symptom assessment at baseline and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-infection. Functional status was evaluated using the Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS) Scale, and quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 Health Survey questionnaire.

Results: A total of 134 patients (71 males [54.2%]), with a mean age of 43.7 (15.3) years, participated in this study. The distribution of patients across care settings was as follows: 51.1% outpatients, 35.9% in wards, and 13% in intensive care units (ICUs). Fatigue during exertion was the most frequently reported long COVID symptom. Patients treated in ICUs experienced a higher burden of long COVID symptoms than those treated in outpatient or ward settings. Furthermore, patients treated in ICUs and wards had a significantly poorer quality of life and functional status than the outpatients.

Conclusions: Long COVID poses a significant ongoing health concern, particularly for patients who require intensive care during acute COVID-19. Vigilant monitoring of long-term sequelae, particularly those that affect quality of life and functional status, is crucial for individuals recovering from COVID-19.