Epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes of patients with COVID-19 at Thailand’s university-based referral hospital
Rujipas Sirijatuphat, Yupin Suputtamongkol, Nasikarn Angkasekwinai, Navin Horthongkham, Methee Chayakulkeeree, Pinyo Rattanaumpawan, Pornpan Koomanachai, Susan Assanasen, Yong Rongrungruang, Nitipatana Chierakul, Ranistha Ratanarat, Anupop Jitmuang, Walaiporn Wangchinda, Wannee Kantakamalakul
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The epidemiology and outcomes of COVID-19 patients in Thailand are scarce. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included adult hospitalized patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 at Siriraj Hospital during February 2020 to April 2020. RESULTS: The prevalence of COVID-19 was 7.5% (107 COVID-19 patients) among 1409 patients who underwent RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 detection at our hospital during the outbreak period. Patients with COVID-19 presented with symptoms in 94.4%. Among the 104 patients who were treated with antiviral medications, 78 (75%) received 2-drug regimen (lopinavir/ritonavir or darunavir/ritonavir plus chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine), and 26 (25%) received a 3-drug regimen with favipiravir added to the 2-drug regimen. Disease progression was observed in 18 patients (16.8%). All patients with COVID-19 were discharged alive. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of COVID-19 was 7.5% among patients who underwent RT-PCR testing, and 10% among those having risk factors for COVID-19 acquisition. Combination antiviral therapies for COVID-19 patients were well-tolerated and produced a favorable outcome.