OBJECTIVES: Few data regarding follow-up of patients after COVID-19 discharge are available. We aim to describe the long-term outcomes of survivors of hospitalization for COVID-19 followed up first at an outpatient facility and subsequently by telephone. METHODS: Observational prospective study conducted at a tertiary general hospital. Clinical and radiological progression was assessed and data recorded on a standardized reporting form. Patients were divided into three groups according to PaO2/FiO2 at hospitalization: PaO2/FiO2 > 300, PaO2/FiO2 300-200 and PaO2/FiO2 < 200. A logistic multivariate regression model was performed to identify factors associated with persistence of symptoms. RESULTS: Facility follow-up: 302 patients were enrolled. Median follow-up was 45 days after discharge; 78% (228/294) of patients had COVID-19-related symptoms (53% asthenia, 56% respiratory symptoms) and 40% (122/302) had residual pulmonary radiographic lesions. PaO2/FiO2 <200 was an independent predictor of persistent dyspnea; OR = 1.87 (1.38 to 2.52), (p <0.0001). PaO2/FiO2 >300 was associated with resolution of chest radiographic lesions; OR = 0.56 (0.42 to 0.74), (p <0.0001). Fifty per cent of patients required specific medical follow-up after the first consultation and were transferred to another physician. Telephone follow-up: 294 patients were contacted after a median time follow-up of 7 months. Fifty per cent of patients (147/294) still presented symptoms and 49% (145/294) psychological disorders. Asthenia was identified in 27% (78/294) and dyspnea in 10% (28/294) of patients independently of PaO2/FiO2. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 patients require long term follow-up due to persistence of symptoms; patients with low PaO2/FiO2 during the acute illness require special attention.
Long-term outcomes of patients following hospitalization for COVID-19: a prospective observational study