A systematic review of the systematic review of post COVID-19 syndrome
Journal Title: The Journal of Medicine, Law & Public Health (JMLPH) - Year 2022, Vol 2, Issue 1
Abstract
Background: The declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a global inquiry into the transmission, mortality, risk factors, and management of the disease. Recently, however, attention has shifted toward its long-term consequences. There is a need for a better understanding of the predictors and symptoms of post-COVID syndrome, to ensure appropriate care for patients recovering from COVID-19 beyond the acute phase. Methods: We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane databases, and available data in the PROSPERO databases. We also explored the reference lists of included articles and any systematic reviews identified therein. We searched the keywords "Post Covid", "Post COVID syndrome", "Post- Covid" and "PostCOVID", until July 2021. Results: Of 8167 articles, 13 were included. The syndrome affects several systems with variable prevalence. Fatigue and sleep disturbance is the most common symptom of acute post-COVID syndrome, observed in more than two-thirds of patients, while a reduction in quality of life and general health status was noted in up to 69%. Furthermore, a reduced aerobic and diffusion capacity was seen in 38% of patients up to one month after presumed recovery from infection. Radiologically, in up to 52% of patients, a ground-glass opacity (GGO) was noted beyond three months post-infection. The incidence of new psychiatric illness increased from as early as 14 days after infection and up to three or six months. Hearing impairment or loss, whether sensorineural or conductive, was noted in up to 8.3% of patients, and tinnitus was seen in up to 4.2%. Conclusion: Overall, given the variability in the manifestation of post-COVID syndrome, a multidisciplinary team is required to better serve these patients. We therefore urge the establishment of such teams, encompassing internal medicine, pulmonology, cardiology, and neurocognitive services.
Authors and Affiliations
Abdulmohsen Alhumayn, Ibrahim Alsaif, Joud Enabi, Sharafaldeen Bin Nafisah
Scenario Planning in Disaster Management: A Call to Change the Current Practice
The current pandemic uncovered how disastrous our disaster plans. The disaster doctrine in its current state is far from ideal, and another model of thinking is warranted. Scenario planning provides a standardised way of...
In Focus: Clinical Imaging of the Median Arcuate Ligament through Cadaveric Exploration
The median arcuate ligament (MAL) is at the core of a current controversy piqued by increased research queries regarding its contribution to the pathogenesis of coeliac artery compress...
Vendor Attraction to Improve the PTM System: A Commentary
Advancement in healthcare technology has shaped modern healthcare delivery. Vendors that supply advanced technology are profit-driven, but at the same time their profit is contingent upon awareness of, and acceptability...
Impact of Inter-facility Critical Care Transport System in Saudi Arabia: Acute Aortic Dissection Case Report
The critical care transport service (CCT) is an important factor in the successful delivery of high-quality services by any healthcare system or programme. It is conducted by well-trained, qualified paramedics, nurses an...
Lactation Ketoacidosis in a COVID- 19 patient: A Case Report
Lactation ketoacidosis is an uncommon cause of high anion gap metabolic acidosis affecting breastfeeding women due to increased metabolic demands, reduction in carbohydrate intake, and acute illness. Meanwhile, recent li...