Coagulation Markers and Creatine Kinase as Biomarkers in Patients with Critical COVID-19

摘要

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging life-threatening disease, and biomarkers that might indicate prognosis are needed to provide the best treatment options. To provide clues for predicting prognosis, we examined the laboratory data from patients with critical cases of COVID-19. Patients admitted to Hyogo College of Medicine Hospital between March 5 and September 30, 2020, were included in the present study. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection was confirmed by a positive polymerase chain reaction result. Mechanical ventilation was used in 6 of 13 patients. Four patients died in the intensive care unit. Statistically significant higher plasma levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were detected in patients who died. Temporary peaks of serum creatine kinase (CK) levels were observed in all fatal cases. In conclusion, patients who did not survive COVID-19 had elevated plasma levels of PAI-1, which may serve as a predictor for poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19. Temporary peaks of serum CK levels may also serve as a predictor of poor outcomes. [Original]