Characterisation of clinical, laboratory and imaging factors related to mild vs. severe covid-19 infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Xiaomei Wu, Lei Liu, Jinghua Jiao, Lina Yang, Bo Zhu, Xin Li
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Early detection of disease progression associated with severe COVID-19, and access to proper medical care lowers fatality rates of severe cases. Currently, no studies had systematically examined the variables in detecting severe COVID-19. METHOD: Systematic searching of electronic databases identified observational studies which recruited participants with confirmed COVID-19 infection who were divided into different groups according to disease severity were identified. RESULTS: Our findings offer guidance for a wide spectrum of clinicians to early identify severe COVID-19 patients, transport to specialised centres, and initiate appropriate treatment. Key Messages This systematic review and meta-analysis examined 41 studies including 5,064 patients with confirmed COVID-19. Severe cases were associated with age, male gender, and with fever, cough and respiratory diseases, increased WBC, CRP, D-dimer, AST and LDH levels. Furthermore, CT manifestation of bilateral lung involvement was associated with the severe cases. These findings provide guidance to health professionals with early identification of severe COVID-19 patients, transportation to specialised care and initiate appropriate supportive treatment.