P-484 Post-Covid-19 Syndrome in Healthcare Workers – Emphasis on Respiratory System

Abstract Introduction Healthcare workers (HCW) were at the frontline of COVID-19 pandemic. Currently the burning issue for this occupational group is chronic post-COVID-19 syndrome that leads to work disability. The study aim was to reveal severity and predictors of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) in HCW with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Methods An observational prospective study over a 3-years period was conducted. HCW with COVID-19, confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were included (n=152). After 4 months, 56 post-COVID-19 syndrome patients continued the study. Using propensity matched score, they was matched 1:1 by age and gender with post-COVID-19 patients, non-HCW, without occupational risk (control group, n=56). High resolution computer tomography (HRCT) (semi-quantitative method) was used to assess PF. Pulmonary function tests, SARS-CoV-2 viral load by PCR, serum proteins measurement by ELISA was done. Logistic regression was used to explore relationships. Results Frequency of PF did not differ between groups, but the proportion of cases with percent fibrosis of 50%-100% was higher in HCW (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.50-7.80). Pediatricians had maximum risk of severe PF (OR 4.79, 95% CI 1.17-15.85). In multivariate analysis, CT score (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-0.09), respiratory support duration (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.12-1.68), maximum cycle threshold (Ct) (OR 0.72, 95%CI 0.60-0.87) and serum transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF- β1) (OR 1.05, 95%CI 1.02-1.08) during the acute COVID-19 were associated with severe PF after 3 years in HCW. Discussion HCW, especially pediatricians, had high risk of persistent severe PF. Potential predictors of severe PF at a long term period were established. Conclusion Post-COVID-19 syndrome in HCW is characterized by severe PF.