Background
The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has subsequently spread worldwide. The number of death has increased rapidly. However, the possible risk factors that lead to death in critical inpatients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are not yet fully known. This study was to explore the risk factors for mortality of critical inpatients with COVID-19.
Methods
In this single-centered, retrospective study, we enrolled 113 critical patients with COVID-19 in Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University between Feb 1, 2020 and Mar 15, 2020. Data were collected using a standard method including clinical records and laboratory findings. Outcomes of survivors and death were compared.
Results
A total of 113 critical patients (from 29 to 95 years) with COVID-19 were recruited, 50 (44.25%) died and 63 recovered (55.75%). The proportion of patients with ventricular arrhythmia was higher in the death group than the recovery group (24.0% vs 4.4%; p = 0.021), and was higher among myocardial damage cases than non-myocardial damage cases (26.1% vs 4.3%; p = 0.013). Multivariate analysis confirmed four independent predictors related to mortality of COVID-19: age > 70 yrs (HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.03–3.28), initial neutrophil count more than 6.5 × 109/L (HR 3.43, 95% CI 1.84–6.40), C-reactive protein greater more than 100 mg/L (HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.04–3.59), and lactate dehydrogenase more than 300 U/L (HR 2.90, 95% CI 1.26–6.67). Immunoglobulin treatment (HR 0.39, 95% CI 0.21–0.73) can reduce the risk of death. There was no significant difference in the QT interval between patients with and without hydroxychloroquine treatment.
Conclusions
Old age (> 70 years), neutrophilia, C-reactive protein greater more than 100 mg/L and lactate dehydrogenase more than 300 U/L are high-risk factors for mortality of critical patients with COVID-19. The incidence of ventricular arrhythmia was higher in deceased patients than survivors.