Pulmonary Hypertension and Functional Impairment in Exercise Capacity 3 Months after Recovery from COVID-19 Infection

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Egypt.

2 Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Elahrar Hospital, Egypt.

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 infection can lead to significant cardiovascular complications, including pulmonary hypertension (PH) and functional impairment. This study investigates the prevalence and functional impairment in non-critical, non-mechanically ventilated patients three months post-recovery from COVID-19 at Suez Canal University Hospital in Ismailia City. Methods: Conducted as a cross-sectional descriptive study, it included 104 non-critically ill patients three months after recovering from COVID-19 pneumonia. Participants were categorized into mild and moderate/severe groups based on WHO criteria. We measured troponin and CRP levels at admission, performed echocardiographic assessments of the right ventricle, calculated pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and conducted a six-minute walk test to evaluate functional status. Results: Pulmonary hypertension was found in 72% of patients, with a higher prevalence in the moderate/severe group. Additionally, functional capacity impairment was more pronounced in this group. A significant negative correlation was observed between troponin I levels (r = -0.808), CRP levels (r = -0.681), pulmonary hypertension (r = -0.930), and functional status. Conclusions:PH is common in non-critical COVID-19 cases, affecting 72% of patients. There is a significant negative correlation between baseline troponin I and CRP levels, pulmonary hypertension, and functional impairment.
 
 

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Suez Canal University Medical Journal
Volume 26, Issue 10
October 2023
Pages 54-66

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