Long COVID Among Kidney Transplant Recipients Appears to Be Attenuated During the Omicron Predominance

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Amorim, Carlos Eduardo Neves ; Cazetta, Gabriela Silveira ; Cristelli, Marina Pontello ; Requiao-Moura, Lucio Roberto ; da Silva, Erica Rodrigues ; Pinheiro Vale, Ludmila ; Brito, Millena de Mikely Pereira ; Bronzo, Thais ; Nakamura, Monica Rika ; Tedesco-Silva, Helio ; Medina-Pestana, Jose

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: TRANSPLANTATION; v. 108, n. 4, p. 7-pg., 2024-04-01.

Abstract

Background. Omicron variant has been associated with milder cases of COVID-19 among kidney transplant recipients. However, little is known about postacute sequelae, referred to as Long COVID. Methods. Prospective, single-center cohort study investigating prevalence and risk factors for Long COVID among kidney transplant recipients during the omicron predominance in Brazil. The analysis included adult patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection between January 5, 2022, and July 18, 2022, were alive, had a functioning kidney transplant 3 mo after symptom onset, and answered a telephonic survey about physical complains of Long COVID. Results. From the 1529 eligible, 602 (39%) patients responded the survey. Sixteen percent reported a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, and 85% had been fully vaccinated. The prevalence of Long COVID was 52%, with the most common complaints being weakness (46%), myalgia (41%), dizziness (33%), and headache (31%). Among employed patients, 94% were able to resume their normal work activities. In multivariable analysis, female gender (hazard ratio [HR], 2.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.51-3.02; P<0.0001), previous SARS-CoV-2 infection (HR, 3.55; 95% CI, 1.91-6.60; P<0.0001), fatigue (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.18-4.55; P=0.014), myalgia (HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.03-2.15; P=0.036) during the acute phase, and hospitalization because of COVID-19 (HR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.06-2.76; P=0.028) were independently associated with Long COVID. Conclusions. In the "omicron era," Long COVID among kidney transplant recipients exhibited milder characteristics and had a less significant impact on their ability to resume normal life activities. The risk factors for persistent symptoms were similar to those observed in the general population except for the vaccination status, underscoring the importance of closer monitoring in special subgroups. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/13680-6 - Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 infection and Coronavirus vaccine response in transplant recipients, dialysis patients, and health workers
• Grantee: Jose Osmar Medina de Abreu Pestana
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants