Correlations between D-Dimer, C-Reactive Protein and Hematologic Data in Outpatients with COVID-19.

BACKGROUND

The main goal of this study is to evaluate correlations between D-dimer, C-reactive protein (CRP), and hematologic data in outpatients with COVID-19. We also aimed to assess if the correlations found for hospitalized patients can be applied to outpatients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study including 100 outpatients, 51 women and 49 men, mean age 51 ± 15 years, from August 2020 to January 2022, diagnosed positive with COVID-19 by real time RT-PCR or rapid antigens test.

RESULTS

The most affected age group with COVID-19 was 51 - 60 years with 29%, whereas 73% of outpatients were less than 60 years. Hematologic data in most outpatients were normal, only 23% of them had an increased neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and 22% had decreased the lymphocyte count. Regarding inflammatory parameters 42% had CRP above the reference range and only 22% had an increased value of D-dimer. We have found correlations between D-dimer and CRP (r = 0.39, p < 0.02). CRP and WBC (r = 0.42, p < 0.011), CRP and NLR (r = 0.73, p < 0.001). White blood cells (WBC) and NLR (r = 0.58, p < 0.001), WBC and platelets (r = 0.45, p < 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the correlations found between the variables studied are found to be present in outpatients and therefore they can serve as good markers to decide whether further tests need to be performed for the diagnosis of severe cases and prognosis of COVID-19.