EXTENSION OF STEROID THERAPY FOR POST-COVID-19 FIBROTIC LUNG SEQUALAE

Abstract

TYPE: Abstract TOPIC: Diffuse Lung Disease PURPOSE: To determine the role of systemic corticosteroid in management of post COVID-19 fibrotic lung disease. METHODS: Design: retrospective observational study. Population: RT-PCR confirmed cases with post-COVID-19 ILD diagnosed by CT chest that was performed after 3 months of the acute infection. RESULTS: 22 patients had prescribed systemic corticosteroid after hospital discharge, the baseline characteristics is provided in table-1. One patient was discharged on Dexamethasone, all others on prednisolone. Mean dose was 10.5mg/day, ranged from 10 to 40mg prednisolone or equivalent. The mean duration was10.3 weeks ( from 1 to 42). 21 patients weaned from systemic corticosteroid and home oxygen. 18 patients had further follow up CT, 16 read as “Improved”. One patient has been prescribed steroid sparing agent namely Mycophenolate Mofetil. None received antifibrotic medications. 10 patients (45.5%) were prescribed supplemental oxygen at home. 3 readmitted within 4 weeks of their discharge, Two were related to the underlying lung condition and steroid therapy (One due to staph. Pneumonia and fungemia and the other is due to uncontrolled DM). One patient was readmitted due to unrelated cause (renal stone). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients responde to systemic corticosteroid; with short and rapid tapering course. High steroid complications rate warrants careful follow up of patients. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: This study highlight the role of systemic corticosteroid in management of post COVID-19 fibrotic lung disease. DISCLOSURE: Nothing to declare. KEYWORD: Post-COVID-19 fibrosis