The aim of this preliminary study is to describe the potential decline in forcedexpiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) or forced vital capacity (FVC) as measured by homespirometry in high-risk subjects infected with COVID-19. We hypothesize that themagnitude of such a decline in FEV1 and/or FVC may be associated with clinicaldeterioration and hospitalization. The study will ultimately inform a larger subsequentRCT that will evaluate the efficacy of home spirometry in the early detection (prerespiratory symptoms) of respiratory complications and therefore prompt early medicalattention which is a key for improving outcome.
Diagnostic Test: home spirometry
portable hand-held spirometer to collect and store daily spirometric data (including FVC,
FEV1, forced expiratory flow after 25 to 75% of vital capacity has been expelled, and
peak flow).
Inclusion Criteria:
1. without dyspnea and with no evidence of pneumonia, ARDS, organ failure or requiring
admission to ICU.
2. All patients ≥55 years age or ≥1 risk factor for disease complications (prior
pulmonary, kidney or cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, bone
merrow suppression, solid organ transplant, HIV with CD4<250, heavy smoker, BMI
>30). All participants will sign a written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
1. Patients unable to perform spirometry
2. contraindications for spirometry (hemoptysis, active tuberculosis, syncope
associated with forced exhalation or increased risk for spirometry)
3. adhere to the follow-up protocol.
Sheba Medical Center
Ramat Gan, Israel
Investigator: Gal Varshavsky
Contact: 972-3-5305997
Gal.Varshavsky@sheba.health.gov.il
Gal Varshavsky
972-3-5305997
Gal.Varshavsky@sheba.health.gov.il