A study by Erlangen University Hospital is investigating the long-term consequences of a corona infection in children and adolescents. The results are terrifying.
Erlangen – “Not everyone was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus without a trace,” the clinic begins its statement on the study. Children and teens who have recovered from a corona infection or who suffer from Long Covid later show huge changes in their lungs. The Erlangen scientists came to this conclusion.
Corona study with frightening results: pulmonary dysfunction in children
The clinical study was conducted by the Children’s and Adolescent Clinic, the Center for Social Pediatrics and the Radiology Institute of the Klinikum Erlangen. It was funded by the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and Art. “We designed this study in collaboration with the Institute of Radiology as evidence of long and post-Covid cases in adults increased,” says Dr. Ferdinand Knieling, specialist in pediatrics and youth medicine in the pediatric clinic of the Erlangen University Hospital.
“That was also the time when the first patients with non-specific symptoms came to our clinic and asked their parents about a connection with a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection.” 29 participants had already recovered from corona infection, 25 suffer from Long Covid. Pulmonary dysfunction was noted in both groups.
Erlangen study: children and youth after coronary lung injury
Using a special MRI, the researchers examined the function of the lungs of all test subjects. It was found that the air and blood flow in the lungs no longer functioned properly in the participants. “In the cured group, the V / Q ratio was 62%, in the long covid group it was 60% – both times significantly lower than the 81% ratio in healthy controls.”
Means: The level of air and blood flow was significantly lower in all corona test subjects than in healthy children and adolescents. The time elapsed since the coronary infection hadn’t mattered. Lung function was always lower (less than 180 days, 180 to 360 days, or more than 360 days).
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The study results warrant monitoring of lung damage after Corona
According to the researchers, the study results warrant further monitoring of ongoing lung damage in children and adolescents after Corona. Further research work is needed, a follow-up study is already underway.
“We want to better understand how the outcomes develop over time and in particular with regards to changing variants of the virus and what significance the described outcomes have for the long-term health of children and adolescents,” explains Dr. on your knees. The researchers will then take a closer look at other organs as well. (tip)
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