Possibilities of the capnometry method in the diagnosis of post-COVID-19 disorders

Abstract

   Relevance. This work presents the diagnostic capabilities of the capnometry and spirometry methods in individuals with a mild form of COVID-19 infection.

   Objective. To assess changes in external respiration parameters in patients with a mild form of COVID-19 infection.

   Materials and methods. The results of examination of 2 groups of patients were analyzed. Group 1 included 30 subjects after a mild form of COVID-19 infection, 10 men and 20 women, average age 56.3 ± 4.2 years. The group was also divided into 10 people depending on the period after the infection: 3 months, 6 months and 9–10 months. Group 2 included 30 healthy volunteers: 16 men and 14 women, average age 45.6 ± 2.4 years.

   Results. Two groups of patients were examined: Group I — subjects who had COVID-19, Group II — 30 healthy volunteers. Capnometry revealed a statistically significant increase in the alveolar phase slope in subjects who had COVID-19 infection compared with the control group during quiet breathing and deep exhalation, and statistical differences in the Toulu index were also revealed. According to the spirometry data, no statistical difference was found in the FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio.

   Conclusion. The capnometry method revealed ventilation-perfusion disturbances for 10 months after mild COVID-19 infection. No changes in spirometric parameters were noted after mild COVID-19 infection. The capnometry method can be recommended to identify persistent disturbances in subjects who have had mild COVID-19.