JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Lack of specific understanding of clinical characteristics, disease trend, and key symptoms of post COVID-19 condition severely impacts research and discovery of new preventive and therapeutics drugs.

Objective:

This study aims to explore the prevalence, trends, and interrelationships of clinical symptoms at different follow-up time points in post COVID-19 condition.

Methods:

The PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases were searched from December, 2019 to April, 2024. Observational studies related to the prevalence of symptoms in post COVID-19 condition patients had been included in this study. We conducted a meta-analysis of symptom prevalence following PRISMA guidelines, and used network and clustering analysis to explore the relationships between symptoms.

Results:

This analysis incorporated 137 sets of macro-level data from 99 clinical studies, involving a total of 45,427 patients. The most common symptom among patients from all 4 time points was fatigue. Dyspnea ranked second in symptom prevalence during both the 3rd and 6th follow-ups, and its prevalence consistently declined subsequently. Additionally, we found significant differences in symptom prevalence across different geographical regions and correlations among symptoms, especially between cough, dizziness, and other symptoms. The study also identified that post COVID-19 condition patients can be categorized into mild and severe based on symptom presentation.

Conclusions:

With varying follow-ups and geographical locations, the number and prevalence of symptoms vary. However, neurological and respiratory symptoms remain the predominant manifestations. Cough, dizziness, palpitation, and loss of smell may serve as key symptoms aiding in the diagnosis and differentiation of post COVID-19 condition. Further research is warranted to elucidate underlying mechanisms, refine diagnostic criteria, and develop targeted interventions. Clinical Trial: PROSPERO Number CRD42024537825