Early Hyperglycemia in Diabetics as a Predictor of Disease Severity in COVID-19

Abstract

Background: Hyperglycemia is an important predictor of prolonged hospitalization and mortality. The objective of this study was to analyze the role of early hyperglycemia in predicting the severity of COVID-19 illness and mortality. Method: Retrospective study on 259 patients with COVID-19 with measurement of average glucose during 24 hours of admission. Association of Early Hyperglycemia categorized as <180 mg/dl or >180 mg/dl; was studied with mortality, requirement of ICU stay and prognostic markers. Results: Early hyperglycemia (>180 mg/dl) revealed a higher median value for CRP (109 mg/l [IQR; 48 - 199]) in comparison to <180 mg/dl group (86 mg/l [IQR; 26.3 - 153]) p = 0.03. ICU stay was higher in >180 mg/dl group; 24 (15.9%) vs 14 patients (13%) [p = 0.51] in the <180 mg/dl group. Mortality in the group > 180 mg/dl was 8 (5.3%) while <180 mg/dl had a mortality rate of 4 (3.7%) [p = 0.547]. Conclusion: Hyperglycemia in the first 24 hours may anticipate an increased risk of ICU stay and a higher mortality rate. It may be a possible predictor of disease severity.