BACKGROUND

Severe COVID-19 occurs in 25—30% of patients. Lung injury is manifested by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This event is typical for severe course of disease. The main treatment is immunobiological therapy involving monoclonal antibodies (interleukin-6 receptor blockers) and convalescent plasma.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of Tocilizumab and convalescent plasma on gas exchange function of lungs in patients with severe COVID-19.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 26 patients. All patients were divided into 2 groups: group I — Tocilizumab alone, group II — Tocilizumab with convalescent plasma. We assessed acid-base status of arterial blood, hospital- and ICU-stay, duration and parameters of respiratory support.

RESULTS

Tocilizumab significantly improves oxygenation after 3 days (p=0.01). We found no significant between-group difference in other parameters.

CONCLUSION

Tocilizumab contributes to normalization and significant increment of oxygen tension in arterial blood, oxygen saturation and P/f ratio within three days after the first injection of the drug. Convalescent plasma does not affect gas exchange function of lungs and parameters of respiratory support.