Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented surge in hospitalised patients with viral pneumonia. Chest X-Ray (CXR) is one of the important, non-invasive methods and used as a preliminary investigation to detect different pulmonary abnormalities. Present study was aimed to study X-ray findings of COVID 19 from Assam medical college and hospital, Dibrugarh. Assam.
Material and Methods: Present study was single-center, prospective, observational study, conducted in patients 18-65 years age, who were confirmed cases of COVID 19 by RT PCR or RAT testing.
Results: In present study, 220 patients satisfying study criteria were evaluated. Chest X ray abnormalities were noted in 48.18% cases initially, while in 2.73% cases, initial normal CXRs later became abnormal. 5.91% CXRs had unilateral abnormalities while 42.27% CXRs had bilateral abnormalities. Symmetrical abnormal findings was noted in 21.82% as compared to asymmetrical abnormal findings in 20.45% cases. CXRs lesion distribution was peripheral location (35.91%), central location (5.91%) & combined peripheral and central location (6.36%). Localization of abnormalities in CXRs was in Lower, Middle & upper zone in 32.73%, 10.45% & 5% respectively. Common specific radiographic abnormalities were Ground glass opacities (GGOs) (42.73%), Consolidation (23.64%), Nodularity (0.91%), Reticular opacity (5.91%) & Pleural effusion (9.55%), Severity score in present study was mild, moderate & severe in 33.18%, 11.82% & 3.18% cases respectively.
Conclusion: Chest X-ray is a valuable tool in better management of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its lower sensitivity compared with CT scans, its inherent advantages such as reasonable cost, broad range of use, and rapid speed make it indispensable.