A cross-sectional study of laboratory parameters 5-6 months after the first COVID-19 infection.

Abstract

Objectives: Despite extensive study of COVID-19 disease, only a few studies also addressed the aftermath of the disease and potential long-term consequences. The aim of this study was to assess COVID-19 resolution through the cross-sectional analysis of an extensive range of haematological and biochemical laboratory parameters and to find potential markers still associated with disease severity 5-6-months post infection.

Methods: In this study, we analysed 92 routine biochemical, haematological and immunological parameters in 75 non-vaccinated patients 5-6 months after recorded first time SARS-CoV-2 infection without reinfection. Demographic and disease severity data were obtained through surveys.

Results: The majority of analysed parameters were within the normal reference intervals, however, statistically significant correlations with the disease severity were detected in 15 parameters: B lymphocytes, NK cells, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-1β, cortisol, ferritin, SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG and IgM antibodies, Na, Cl, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol, HbA1c and alpha 2 and beta 2 globulin fractions of the proteinogram.

Conclusions: Although most observed parameters returned to their normal reference intervals, significant correlations were still observed with disease severity, that could indicate either the pre-infection baseline state which affected disease outcome or minor remaining alterations in function of certain organs, pertaining their stress or damage during the acute phase of the disease.