Post-Covid Pulmonary Changes And Respiratory Dysfunction

COVID-19 may cause persistent structural and functional abnormalities in the lungs, even after the resolution of acute infection. Residual pulmonary changes can contribute to impaired gas exchange, reduced exercise tolerance, and prolonged respiratory symptoms. To evaluate residual pulmonary abnormalities and respiratory dysfunction in patients recovering from COVID-19 pneumonia. Materials and Methods. A comparative observational study model included 120 participants: 90 patients with a history of COVID-19 pneumonia and 30 healthy controls. Post-COVID patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of residual fibrotic-like pulmonary changes. Clinical assessment, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), spirometry, pulmonary diffusing capacity (DLCO), and six-minute walk testing were included. In the illustrative dataset, residual fibrotic-like abnormalities were identified in 40.0% of post-COVID patients. Individuals with these changes demonstrated lower pulmonary diffusion capacity, reduced lung volumes, persistent dyspnea, and decreased physical endurance compared with patients without fibrotic-like abnormalities. Residual pulmonary changes following COVID-19 may be associated with persistent respiratory dysfunction. Combined radiological and functional assessment is important for identifying patients requiring further observation and rehabilitation.