CRP AND HRCT IN COVID-19: DO THEY MEET OR DEPART?

Abstract

Background To retrospectively determine the correlation between the CT severity score and CRP levels in Covid-19 patients. This is a retrospective original research of 247 patients (IPD and OPD) between 1st April 2021 to 31stMethods May 2021 for Covid-19.Patients CT severity scores, HRCT Thorax findings, CRP and Demographic variables were recorded. The correlation between CT severity Score and CRP levels were determined. Mean CT severity scoreResults was 6.6 and CRP levels 33.4 mg/dl. Higher CT score and CRP levels were seen in Males (median- 7) than Females (median -5). CT severity score and CRP level showed positive correlation (r-0.45, p<0.05) in categories with mild CT score. Correlation was relatively weak in patient > 45 years of age than in those <45 years of age. Correlation was not significant in Severe (p value-0.59) and Moderate (p value-0.34) CT severity score group. Difference may be due to CRP level rising before the identifiable lung damage and Rise in CT severity score. CRP levels showsConclusions statistically positive correlation with CT severity score only in initial (mild grade) cases of Covid-19 and hence serial evaluation of CRP in initial stages can be used to predict the Severity of Disease and CT severity score. However, a falling sequential CRP is not helpful in predicting HRCT score increase or reduction. Hence though CRP and HRCT are initially together in this clinical journey of COVID-19, finally they depart. CRP levels can therefore be not a substitute for HRCT to identify the severity and extent, the progression and regression and till date remains the gold standard as far as Covid-19 is considered.