Evaluation of variation of D-dimer levels in COVID-19 patients to predict the disease outcome in a hospital based study

Objectives: D-dimers is a sensitive indicator in COVID-19 patients We aimed to determine the contribution of demographic factors (age and gender) toward an elevated d-dimer values, and to determine the probability of surviving in different age groups in COVID-19, with d-dimer > 0 5 mu g/ml Methodology: A total of 193 patients were enrolled from COVID-19 isolation units of Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar, whose d-dimer levels were performed as per instructions of the treating physician and were followed Relevant information's were recorded on a pre-designed performa prepared in accordance with the objectives of the study Results: Out of total 193 patients 152 (78 8%) were males and 41 (21 2%) females 94(48 7%) patients were in the age range 35-55 y while 76(39 4%) patients had age more than 55 y Regarding d-dimer readings, 162 (83 9%) had d-dimer levels more than 0 5 mu g/ml The mean with standard deviation of age of the patients was 52 +/- 13 yrs The mean with standard deviation of d-dimer values of the patients was 4 9 +/- 13 3 mu g/ml It was observed that, the relative risk of deranged values of d-dimers was 1 18 (rr = 1 18) in patients with age > 55 yrs Similarly, in female gender the relative risk of higher values of d-dimers above normal was 1 26 (rr = 1 26) without reaching a statistically significant p-value (p = 0 48) The probability of worse outcome in term of death was 2 06 times more in patients with d dimers > 0 5 mu g/ml (OR = 2 06) Furthermore the probability of surviving was 90-100% by age = 80 y Conclusion: The deranged d-dimer levels were noted in 84% of the COVID-19 patients Age > 55 y and female gender are at higher risk of deranged d-dimers and further consequences Survival rate of patients with deranged d-dimers drops to 30% in patients with age >= 80 y, 45% at age <= 70 y