Study of Extrapulmonary Manifestations of COVID-19 patients

ABSTRACT

Aim: To study extrapulmonary manifestations in COVID-19 patients. Material and methods: The present retrospective study was conducted among 200 COVID positive patients in the department of medicine, CSS Hospital, Subharti Medical College, Meerut. COVID-19 was diagnosed on the basis of the WHO interim guidance. Patients' diagnosis was identified along with the co-morbidity (if present). Laboratory investigations comprised of CBC and serum albumin detection. Extrapulmonary manifestations were defined as patients having predominantly neurological, gastrointestinal (GI), cardiovascular, cutaneous, and uncommon respiratory symptom such as hemoptysis either concomitant with typical respiratory symptoms or as the sole manifestation. Results: Fever was most frequent complain (n=97, 48.5%), followed by cough (n=76, 38%) and dyspnea was present in 51 subjects (25.5%). The most common respiratory symptoms was dyspnea (n=64, 32%). The most common cardiovascular symptoms was Dyspnea on exertion (n=54, 27%), followed by Palpitations (n=29, 14.5%). The most common GIT Symptoms was diarrhea (n=34, 17%), followed by Vomiting (n=13, 6.5%) and only 8 subjects (4%) reported abdominal pain. Dermatological symptoms were shown in 5 (2.5%) subjects. The most common musculoskeletal Symptoms was fatigue (n=103, 51.5%), followed by Myalgias (n=11, 5.5%) and Joint/Back Pain (n=4, 2%). Conclusion: Patients with COVID-19 require long-term follow-up even after recovery for observation and management of their post-COVID ailments. During the ongoing COVID-19pandemic, most health facilities are overloaded. Hence, arranging follow-up for patients can be a challenge. Therefore, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential for such patients during hospitalization and discharge.