Low-Dose Radiotherapy for Patients with Pneumonia Due to COVID-19: A Single-Institution Prospective Study

Abstract

Purpose: Results of the low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) in patients with pneumonia due to COVID-19 has been presented. Methods: Fifteen patients received a single-fraction radiation dose of 1 Gy to the bilateral lungs due to pre-ARDS pneumonia in the course of COVID-19. Follow-up was performed on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 after LDRT. Results: Eleven patients (73%) were released up until day 28. Median hospitalization was 20 days; 28-day mortality was 13%. Median O2 saturation improved within 24 h after LDRT in 14/15, with median SpO2 values of 84.5% vs. 87.5% p = 0.016, respectively. At day 14 of hospitalization, 46% did not require oxygen supplementation. Significant decline in CRP and IL-6 was observed within 24 h post LDRT. No organ toxicities were noted. Conclusion: LDRT is feasible, well tolerated and may translate to early clinical recovery in patients with severe pneumonia. Further studies are needed to determine optimal candidate, time and dose of LDRT for COVID-19 patients with pneumonia.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• pneumonia
• low dose radiotherapy
• cytokine storm
• inflammation