Association between patient-reported kidney outcome measures and kidney function of survivors of COVID-19 hospitalization

• Grant number: 24/22370-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Heitor Siqueira Ribeiro
• Grantee: Vitória Carolayne Campos de Oliveira
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/01769-5 - Late assessment of physical, psychological and cognitive effects in a cohort of patients surviving COVID-19 hospitalization at a tertiary university hospital: a multidisciplinary approach, AP.TEM

Abstract

Introduction: During the acute phase of COVID-19, the kidneys have emerged as a potential target of SARS-CoV-2, leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). Survivors of moderate to severe hospitalization may experience long-term sequelae across multiple physiological systems, including the kidneys. Consequently, long-term follow-up for these patients is essential to mitigate adverse clinical outcomes. Patient self-perception is also an important tool in patient-centered kidney disease management. Objectives: To investigate the association between patient-reported renal outcomes (PROMs) and adverse kidney function outcomes in long COVID. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study comprising survivors of moderate to severe COVID-19 hospitalization at the Hospital das Clínicas, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo (HCFMUSP). The enrolled sample is undergoing annual follow-up. The kidney PROMs questionnaire assesses clinical manifestations such as proteinuria, hematuria, and/or edema following hospitalization and whether these symptoms persist. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albuminuria, and abnormal urinary sediment will be evaluated at the first follow-up visit. Kidney dysfunction will be defined according to the KDIGO guidelines as eGFR < 60 m¿/min/1.73 m² and/or a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio ¿ 30 mg/g and/or the presence of hematuria or leukocyturia. Expected Results: Kidney PROMs will be associated with adverse kidney function outcomes in long COVID among survivors of COVID-19 hospitalization.