Evaluation of D-dimer as a prognostic indicator in patients with severe COVID-19 disease

Background – COVID-19 has been a global pandemic since its inception more than two years ago due to rapid transmission in humans. It can cause severe respiratory illness which may lead to death. As it is a novel disease, there are many speculations regarding its diagnosis and management. Thus, this study was planned with an aim to evaluate the role of D-dimer as a marker in predicting poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients. Materials and methods – This was a prospective, observational study carried out for a duration of three months in Unique hospital. The patients of 18 years and above diagnosed with severe COVID-19 disease diagnosed by clinical and radiological picture by pulmonologist were included in the study. Their demographic details were recorded and blood samples were taken once on the day of admission and second time on 5th day. Routine laboratory tests along with D-dimer were performed. The data was statistically analyzed using receiver operating curves to evaluate cut-off values of D-dimer. The patients were divided into two groups based on cut-off values of D-dimer on day of admission and day 5 post admission