Characteristics of patients with pneumonia caused by SARS-Cov-2
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Background
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, has led to a global health crisis with significant morbidity and mortality. Pneumonia is a common and severe manifestation of COVID-19, often progressing to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multi-organ failure. The clinical presentation and severity of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia vary widely, with bilateral pneumonia associated with worse outcomes. Understanding the characteristics and risk factors for severe pneumonia is crucial for optimizing patient management. To investigate the clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and outcomes of patients with pneumonia caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 136 confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia diagnosed by chest X-ray and/or CT scan. Data were collected on demographics, symptoms, comorbidities, laboratory findings, and disease severity. Differences between unilateral and bilateral pneumonia were analyzed.
Results
The study population consisted of 80 (58.8%) males and 56 (41.2%) females, with a mean age of 68.2 ± 10.5 years and a BMI of 26.7 ± 6.2 kg/m 2 . The most common comorbidities were hypertension (42.6%), diabetes (40.4%), and chronic lung disease (22.8%). The mean onset of pneumonia was 7.5 ± 2.1 days after COVID-19 diagnosis. Bilateral pneumonia was observed in 72.1% of cases and was associated with lower oxygen saturation (92.1 ± 2.3%), higher C-reactive protein levels (81.5 ± 32.3 mg/L), and increased white blood cell count (9 ± 2.4 × 10 3 /mm 3 ) compared to unilateral pneumonia. Bilateral pneumonia was also significantly associated with increased rates of respiratory failure, pulmonary embolism, prolonged hospitalization, and mortality.
Conclusion
Pneumonia due to SARS-CoV-2 commonly presents with fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Bilateral pneumonia is predominant and associated with more severe clinical manifestations, higher complication rates, and increased mortality. Early recognition and management of high-risk patients are crucial to improving outcomes.
