COVID-19: Early Detection of Worsening by Voice and Respiratory Pattern Characteristics

In some clinical forms of COVID-19, an uncontrolled hyper-inflammatory reaction known as a "cytokine storm" appears abruptly, around day 7, and is associated with rapid respiratory deterioration, requiring hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU). At present, although risk factors for this severe form have been described, there are no validated criteria for determining which individual patients will develop this aggravation. The study of respiratory sounds (amplitude, frequency, ...) has made it possible in other respiratory pathologies (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) to predict exacerbations several days in advance. Having a predictive respiratory pattern for worsening in COVID-19 would make it possible to anticipate the need for intensive care hospital beds, by means of a tool easily available on a mobile phone.