Higher Charlson Comorbidity Index Scores Research Articles

Effectiveness and Safety of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Colorectal Neoplasm in Patients with High Charlson Comorbidity Index Score: A HASID Multicenter Study.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an effective method for removing early colorectal lesions. However, research on the safety and efficacy of ESD in patients with various underlying conditions remains limited. This study retrospectively examined ESD outcomes in colorectal neoplasm patients from five tertiary medical centers. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and age-adjusted CCI (ACCI) were analyzed, and the differences in complete resection and complication rates were analyzed. The CCI, ACCI, and complication rates tended to gradually increase proportionally, and the complication resection rate increased from CCI 2 to ACCI 4 as the starting point, followed by a decreasing trend. Of these, 140 patients (9.7%) had a CCI score of 3 or higher. The high CCI group was older (70.6% vs. 64.7%, p < 0.01) and had a higher proportion of men (70.7% vs. 58.7%, p < 0.01) than the low CCI group. The high CCI group had a higher incidence of cancer than the low CCI group (77.9% vs. 65.2%, p < 0.01). The en bloc resection rate (90.0% vs. 89.3%, p = 0.79) and complete resection rate (75.7% vs. 81.2%, p = 0.12) were not significantly different between the two groups. Colorectal ESD can be safely and effectively performed in patients with various underlying medical conditions.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism After Gender Affirming Vaginoplasty: A Retrospective Analysis of a Large Insurance Claims Database

To investigate the incidence and associated risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after gender affirming vaginoplasty. We searched International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) Marketscan, a commercial claims database, for Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) procedure codes to identify patients who underwent gender affirming vaginoplasty from 2011-2020. We quantified deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes found within 90days after surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to establish association between VTE events and age, residency location, and comorbidities. We identified 1588 patients who underwent gender affirming vaginoplasty. Overall, 1.1% of patients experienced a VTE within 90days following surgery. Patients who experienced postoperative VTE were older, more likely to have had a prior VTE, less likely to be from an urban area, and more likely to have a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score. Among patients with postoperative VTE, 47.1% had previous VTE. Among patients without a postoperative VTE, 1.3% had previous VTE. In patients undergoing gender affirming vaginoplasty, the incidence of postoperative VTE was 1.1%. Older age, rurality, increased comorbidities, and prior VTE were associated with increased risk of postoperative VTE. Current guidelines do not recommend cessation of gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) prior to vaginoplasty. Further research is needed to evaluate if certain high-risk patients would benefit from perioperative adjustment of GAHT or perioperative VTE prophylaxis.

Clinical outcomes and predictors for 30-day readmissions of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the United States.

We aimed to assess 30-day readmissions of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the United States. The National Readmission Database was utilized from 2016 to 2020 to identify 30-day readmissions of ERCP. Hospitalization characteristics and outcomes were compared between index hospitalizations and readmissions. Predictors of 30-day readmission and mortality were also identified. Between 2016 and 2020, 885 416 index hospitalizations underwent ERCP. Of these, 88 380 (10.15%) were readmitted within 30days. Compared to index hospitalizations, 30-day readmissions had higher mean age (63.76 vs 60.8years, P<0.001) and proportion of patients with Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score ≥3 (48.26% vs 29.91%, P<0.001). Sepsis was the most common readmission diagnosis. Increasing age, male gender, higher CCI scores, admissions at large metropolitan teaching hospitals, cholecystectomy on index hospitalization, biliary stenting, increasing length of stay (LOS) at index admission, post-ERCP pancreatitis, post-ERCP hemorrhage, and gastrointestinal tract perforation were independent predictors of 30-day readmissions. Furthermore, 30-day readmissions had higher odds of inpatient mortality (4.42% vs 1.66%, aOR 1.9, 95% CI: 1.79-2.01, P<0.001) compared to index hospitalizations. However, we noted a shorter LOS (5.78 vs 6.22days, mean difference 1.2, 95% CI: 1.12-1.28, P<0.001) and lower total hospital charge ($71 076 vs $93 418, mean difference $31 452, 95% CI: 29 835-33 069, P<0.001) for 30-day readmissions compared to index hospitalizations. Increasing age, higher CCI scores, increasing LOS, biliary stenting, and post-ERCP hemorrhage were independent predictors of inpatient mortality for 30-day readmissions. After index ERCP, the 30-day remission rate was 10.15%. Compared to index hospitalizations, 30-day readmissions had higher odds of inpatient mortality.

The psoas muscle density as a predictor of postoperative complications in elderly patients undergoing rectal cancer resection.

Muscle depletion that impairs normal physiological function in elderly patients leads to poor prognosis. This study aimed to evaluate the association between total abdominal muscle area (TAMA), total psoas area (TPA), psoas muscle density (PMD), and short-term postoperative complications in elderly patients with rectal cancer. All elderly patients underwent rectal cancer resection with perioperative abdominal computed tomography (CT). Complications were assessed according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Severe complications were defined as grade III-V following the Clavien-Dindo classification. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate risk factors of short-term severe postoperative complications. The cohort consisted of 191 patients with a mean age of 73.60 ± 8.81 years. Among them, 138 (72.25%) patients had Clavien-Dindo 0- II, 53 (27.75%) patients had severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo III-V), and 1(0.52%) patient died within 30 days of surgery. PMD was significantly higher in the Clavien-Dindo 0-II cohort compared to the Clavien-Dindo III-V cohort (p=0.004). Nevertheless, TAMA and TPA failed to exhibit significant differences. Moreover, the multivariate regression analysis implied that advanced age [OR 1.07 95%CI (1.02-1.13) p=0.013], male [OR 5.03 95%CI (1.76-14.41) p=0.003], high charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score [OR 3.60 95%CI (1.44-9.00) p=0.006], and low PMD [OR 0.94 95%CI (0.88-0.99) p=0.04] were independent risk factors of Clavien-Dindo III-V. Preoperative assessment of the PMD on CT can be a simple and practical method for identifying elderly patients with rectal cancer at risk for severe postoperative complications.

COVID-19 Infection Was Associated with the Functional Outcomes of Hip Fracture among Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic Apex.

Background and Objectives: Hip fractures are associated with mortality and poor functional outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected patterns of care and health outcomes among fracture patients. This study aimed to determine the influence of COVID-19 infection on hip fracture recovery. Materials and Methods: We prospectively collected data on patients with hip fractures who presented at Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital between 9 March 2022 and 9 September 2022. The data included demographic information and functional scores taken before, during, and after surgery. The patients were divided into two groups: COVID-19 (+) and COVID-19 (-). Results: This study recruited 85 patients, 12 of whom (14.12%) were COVID-19 (+). No significant differences in preoperative or perioperative parameters between the two groups were observed. The postoperative Barthel index score was significantly impacted by COVID-19 infection (p = 0.001). The incidence of postoperative complications was significantly correlated with general anesthesia (p = 0.026) and the length of stay (p = 0.004) in hospital. Poor postoperative functional scores were associated with lower preoperative Barthel index scores (p < 0.001). Male sex (p = 0.049), old age (p = 0.012), a high American Society of Anesthesiologists grade (p = 0.029), and a high Charlson comorbidity index score (p = 0.028) were associated with mortality. Conclusions: Hip fracture surgeries were not unduly delayed in our hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the patients' postoperative Barthel index scores were significantly influenced by COVID-19 (+). The preoperative Barthel index score may be a good predictive tool for the postoperative functional recovery of these patients.

Factors associated with higher hemoglobin A1c and type 2 diabetes-related costs: Secondary data analysis of adults 18 to 64 in Texas with commercial insurance.

This study will identify factors associated with higher hemoglobin A1c (A1c) values and diabetes-related costs among commercially insured adults in Texas diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This secondary data analysis was based on claims data from commercially insured individuals 18-64 years of age residing in Texas with diagnosed type 2 diabetes during the 2018-2019 study period. The final analysis sample after all the exclusions consisted of 34,992 individuals. Measures included hemoglobin A1c, diabetes-related costs, Charlson Comorbidity Index, diabetes-related complications, rurality and other socioeconomic characteristics. Longitudinal A1c measurements were modeled using age, sex, rurality, comorbidity, and diabetes-related complications in generalized linear longitudinal regression models adjusting the observation time, which was one of the 8 quarters in 2018 and 2019. The diabetes-related costs were similarly modeled in both univariable and multivariable generalized linear longitudinal regression models adjusting the observation time by calendar quarters and covariates. The median A1c value was 7, and the median quarterly diabetes-related cost was $120. A positive statistically significant relationship (p = < .0001) was found between A1c levels and diabetes-related costs, although this trend slowed down as A1c levels exceeded 8.0%. Higher A1c values were associated with being male, having diabetes-related complications, and living in rural areas. Higher costs were associated with higher A1c values, older age, and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores. The study adds updated analyses of the interrelationships among demographic and geographic factors, clinical indicators, and health-related costs, reinforcing the role of higher A1c values and complications as diabetes-related cost drivers.

Trends and predictors of intracranial hemorrhage in patients with advanced heart failure on left ventricular assist device from 2005 to 2014 in the United States

ObjectivesLeft ventricular assist devices are known to extend survival in patients with advanced heart failure; however, their association with intracranial hemorrhage is also well-known. We aimed to explore the risk trend and predictors of intracranial hemorrhage in patients with left ventricular assist devices. Material and MethodsWe included patients aged 18 years or older with left ventricular assist devices hospitalized in the US from 2005 to 2014 using the National Inpatient Sample. We computed the survey-weighted percentages with intracranial hemorrhage across the 10-year study period and assessed whether the proportions changed over time. Predictors of intracranial hemorrhage were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression model. ResultsOf 33,246 hospitalizations, 568 (1.7%) had intracranial hemorrhage. The number of left ventricular assist devices placements increased from 873 in 2005 to 5175 in 2014. However, the risk of intracranial hemorrhage remained largely unchanged (1.7% to 2.3%; linear trend, P = 0.604). The adjusted odds of intracranial hemorrhage were increased with the presence of one of the following variables: female sex (odds ratio [OR], 1.58; 95% CI, 1.03-2.43), history of ischemic stroke (OR, 3.13; 95% CI, 1.86-5.28), or Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 3 or more (OR, 77.40; 95% CI, 10.03-597.60). ConclusionsOver the last decade, the risk of intracranial hemorrhage has remained relatively unchanged despite an increase in the use of left ventricular assist devices in patients with advanced heart failure. Women, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores, and history of ischemic stroke were associated with higher odds of intracranial hemorrhage in patients with left ventricular assist devices.

Anti–SARS-CoV-2 Pharmacotherapies Among Nonhospitalized US Veterans, January 2022 to January 2023

Several pharmacotherapies have been authorized to treat nonhospitalized persons with symptomatic COVID-19. Longitudinal information on the use of these therapies is needed. To analyze trends and factors associated with prescription of outpatient COVID-19 pharmacotherapies within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). This cohort study evaluated nonhospitalized veterans in VHA care who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from January 2022 through January 2023 using VHA and linked Community Care and Medicare databases. Demographic characteristics, underlying medical conditions, COVID-19 vaccination, and regional and local systems of care, including Veterans Integrated Services Networks (VISNs). Monthly receipt of any COVID-19 pharmacotherapy (nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, molnupiravir, sotrovimab, or bebtelovimab) was described. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with receipt of any vs no COVID-19 pharmacotherapy. Among 285 710 veterans (median [IQR] age, 63.1 [49.9-73.7] years; 247 358 males [86.6%]; 28 444 Hispanic [10.0%]; 61 269 Black [21.4%] and 198 863 White [69.6%]) who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between January 2022 and January 2023, the proportion receiving any pharmacotherapy increased from 3285 of 102 343 veterans (3.2%) in January 2022 to 5180 of 21 688 veterans (23.9%) in August 2022. The proportion declined to 2194 of 10 551 veterans (20.8%) by January 2023. Across VISNs, the range in proportion of patients who tested positive who received nirmatrelvir-ritonavir or molnupiravir during January 2023 was 41 of 692 veterans (5.9%) to 106 of 494 veterans (21.4%) and 2.1% to 120 of 1074 veterans (11.1%), respectively. Veterans receiving any treatment were more likely to be older (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for ages 65-74 vs 50-64 years, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.14-1.22; aOR for ages ≥75 vs 50-64 years, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.15-1.23) and have a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score (aOR for CCI ≥6 vs 0, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.44-1.59). Compared with White veterans, Black veterans (aOR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02-1.09) were more likely to receive treatment, and compared with non-Hispanic veterans, Hispanic veterans (aOR 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11) were more likely to receive treatment. This study found that prescription of outpatient COVID-19 pharmacotherapies in the VHA peaked in August 2022 and declined thereafter. There were large regional differences in patterns of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and molnupiravir use.

Severe necrotizing soft tissue infections-Is wound microbiology a prognostic factor for clinical outcome?

Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) represent similar pathophysiological features, but the clinical course might range from subacute to a rapidly progressive, fulminant sepsis. Initial wound microbiology is the base for the Guiliano classification. The timeline of microbiological colonization has not been described during the clinical course. The role of the different microbiological pathogens on the outcome and mortality is unclear. One hundred eighty patients were included with septic inflammation response syndrome on admission. Initial wound microbiology and the changes in wound microbiology were analysed during the clinical course and correlated with outcome and risk indicators. Overall mortality was 35%. Higher age, a high Charlson Comorbidity Index or ASA score and truncal infections were highly prognostic for a lethal outcome. Microbiological findings revealed significant differences in the persistence of bacteria during the course of disease. Streptococci were only detectable within the first 5 days, whereas other bacteria persisted over a longer period of time. Initial microbiological findings correlated with better prognosis when no causative agent was identified and for gram-negative rods. Varying survival rates were observed for different Streptococci, Staphylococci, Enterococci and other bacteria. The highest odds ratio for a lethal outcome was observed for Enterococci and fungi. Microbiological colonization changes during the clinical course of NSTIs and some microbiologic pathogens are predictive for worsening the outcome and survival. Streptococcus pyogenes is only detectable in the very early phase of NSTI and after 6 days not anymore detectable. Later Enterococci and fungi showed the highest odds ratios for a lethal outcome. Enterococci bacteria and fungi have yet not been considered of clinical relevance in NSTI or even as indicator for worsening the outcome.

The Prevalence of Cognitive Impairment Among Medicare Beneficiaries Who Use Outpatient Physical Therapy.

The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of cognitive impairment (including cognitive impairment no dementia [CIND] and dementia) among Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries who used outpatient physical therapy and to estimate the prevalence of cognitive impairment by measures that are relevant to rehabilitation practice. This cross-sectional analysis included 730 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries in the 2016 wave of the Health and Retirement Study with claims for outpatient physical therapy. Cognitive status, our primary variable of interest, was categorized as normal, CIND, or dementia using a validated approach, and population prevalence of cognitive impairment (CIND and dementia) was estimated by sociodemographic variables and Charlson comorbidity index score. Age-, gender- (man/woman), race-/ethnicity-adjusted population prevalence of CIND and dementia were also calculated for walking difficulty severity, presence of significant pain, self-reported fall history, moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) ≤1×/week, and sleep disturbance frequency using multinomial logistic regression. Among Medicare beneficiaries with outpatient physical therapist claims, the prevalence of any cognitive impairment was 20.3% (CIND:15.2%, dementia:5.1%). Cognitive impairment was more prevalent among those who were older, Black, had lower education attainment, or higher Charlson comorbidity index scores. The adjusted population prevalence of cognitive impairment among those who reported difficulty walking across the room was 29.8%, difficulty walking 1 block was 25.9%, difficulty walking several blocks was 20.8%, and no difficulty walking was 16.3%. Additionally, prevalence of cognitive impairment among those with MVPA ≤1×/week was 27.1% and MVPA >1×/week was 14.1%. Cognitive impairment prevalence did not vary by significant pain, self-reported fall history, or sleep disturbance. One in 5 older adults who use outpatient physical therapist services have cognitive impairment. Furthermore, cognitive impairment is more common in older physical therapist patients who report worse physical function and less physical activity. Physical therapists should consider cognitive screening for vulnerable older adults to inform tailoring of clinical practice toward a patient's ability to remember and process rehabilitation recommendations.

Relationship Between Comorbidity Burden and Short-Term Outcomes Across 4680 Consecutive Spinal Fusions

Preoperative management requires the identification and optimization of modifiable medical comorbidities, though few studies isolate comorbid status from related patient-level variables. This study evaluates Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI)-an easily derived measure of aggregate medical comorbidity-to predict outcomes from spinal fusion surgery. Coarsened exact matching is employed to control for key patient characteristics and isolate CCI. We retrospectively assessed 4680 consecutive patients undergoing single-level, posterior-only lumbar fusion at a single academic center. Logistic regression evaluated the univariate relationship between CCI and patient outcomes. Coarsened exact matching generated exact demographic matches between patients with high comorbid status (CCI >6) or no medical comorbidities (matched n= 524). Patients were matched 1:1 on factors associated with surgical outcomes, and outcomes were compared between matched cohorts. Primary outcomes included surgical complications, discharge status, 30- and 90-day risk of readmission, emergency department (ED) visits, reoperation, and mortality. Univariate regression of increasing CCI was significantly associated with non-home discharge, as well as 30- and 90-day readmission, ED visits, and mortality (all P < 0.05). Subsequent isolation of comorbidity between otherwise exact-matched cohorts found comorbid status did not affect readmissions, reoperations, or mortality; high CCI score was significantly associated with non-home discharge (OR= 2.50, P < 0.001) and 30-day (OR= 2.44, P= 0.02) and 90-day (OR= 2.29, P= 0.008) ED evaluation. Comorbidity, measured by CCI, did not increase the risk of readmission, reoperation, or mortality. Single-level, posterior lumbar fusions may be safe in appropriately selected patients regardless of comorbid status. Future studies should determine whether CCI can guide discharge planning and postoperative optimization.

Prognostic values of geriatric nutrition risk index on elderly patients after spinal tuberculosis surgery.

Spinal tuberculosis (STB) is a significant public health concern, especially in elderly patients, due to its chronic and debilitating nature. Nutritional status is a critical factor affecting the prognosis of STB patients. The geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) has been established as a reliable predictor of adverse outcomes in various diseases, but its correlation with surgical outcomes in elderly STB patients has not been studied. The study aimed to assess the prognostic value of the GNRI in elderly patients with STB who underwent surgery. We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records of elderly patients (65 years or older) diagnosed with active STB who underwent surgical treatment. Data collection included patient demographics, comorbidities, clinical history, laboratory testing, and surgical factors. GNRI was calculated using serum albumin levels and body weight. Postoperative complications were observed and recorded. The patients were followed up for at least 1 year, and their clinical cure status was assessed based on predefined criteria. A total of 91 patients were included in the study. We found that a GNRI value of <98.63 g/dL was a cutoff value for predicting unfavorable clinical prognosis in elderly STB patients undergoing surgery. Patients with a low GNRI had higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores, were more likely to receive red blood cell transfusions, and had a higher prevalence of overall complications, particularly pneumonia. The unfavorable clinical prognosis group had lower GNRI scores compared to the favorable prognosis group. Multivariate analysis showed that lower GNRI independently predicted unfavorable clinical outcomes in elderly STB patients. The study concluded that the GNRI is a valuable biomarker for predicting prognosis in elderly STB patients undergoing surgical intervention. Patients with lower GNRI scores had worse outcomes and a higher incidence of complications.

Clostridioides difficile Infection in COVID-19 Hospitalized Patients: A Nationwide Analysis.

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a significant healthcare-associated infection with implications for patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. However, the connection between CDI and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and its influence on patient outcomes remain uncertain. This study aimed to examine the association between CDI and COVID-19, specifically investigating whether CDI worsens outcomes in patients with COVID-19. By utilizing the extensive National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database and analyzing pertinent factors, this research endeavored to enhance our understanding of CDI within the context of COVID-19. The NIS database was searched for adult patients hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of COVID-19 infection in 2020. Patients with a secondary diagnosis of CDI were identified and separated into two groups based on CDI status. Baseline characteristics, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and outcomes were compared between the two groups using Chi-square and t-tests. Multivariate logistic and linear regressions were performed for the identification of independent predictors of CDI and mortality. A total of 1,045,125 COVID-19 hospitalizations were included, of which 4,920 had a secondary diagnosis of CDI. Patients with CDI and COVID-19 were older (mean age 69.9 vs. 64.2 years; P < 0.001), more likely to be female (54.1% vs. 47.1%; P < 0.001) and white (60% vs. 52.4%; P < 0.001). The CDI and COVID-19 group had a longer length of stay (14.1 vs. 7.42 days; P < 0.001), higher total hospital costs ($42,336 vs. $18,974; P < 0.001), and higher inpatient mortality (21.6% vs. 11%; P < 0.001) compared to the COVID-19 group without CDI. Patients in the CDI and COVID-19 group had a higher CCI score (51.7% with a score of 3 or more vs. 27.7%; P < 0.001), indicating a higher comorbidity burden. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed CDI was independently associated with increased mortality (odds ratio (OR) 1.37; P = 0.001) and showed that the female gender and several pre-existing comorbidities were associated with a higher likelihood of CDI. CDI is independently associated with increased mortality in patients admitted with COVID-19 infection. Female gender and several pre-existing comorbidities are independent predictors of CDI in COVID-19 patients.

Analysis of the Comorbid Course of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

(1) Background. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a heterogeneous natural history, manifested both in the variability of clinical features and in association with various comorbid pathologies. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is of great clinical importance and contributes significantly to the natural history and prognosis of COPD. The present study aimed to evaluate the nature of the comorbid course of COPD during a 15-year follow-up. (2) Methods: A total of 170 male COPD patients were included in this study. Spirometry values, symptom severity, presence of risk factors, and comorbidities were considered. Prognostic factors were evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method. (3) Results: ASCVD was the most common comorbidity and the main cause of death in patients with COPD. Patients with comorbid COPD and ASCVD had more severe dyspnea, higher frequency of COPD exacerbations, and worse survival than patients without ASCVD (p < 0.01). Among patients with COPD, the risk of death from ASCVD was higher in those older than 60 years (OR 3.23, 95% CI [1.72, 6.07]), those with rapidly declining FEV1 (OR 4.35, 95% CI [2.28, 8.30]), those with more than two exacerbations per year (OR 3.21, 95% CI [1.71, 6.11]), and those with a pack year index greater than 30 (OR 2.75, 95% CI [1.38, 5.51]. High Charlson comorbidity index scores in patients with COPD were associated with a more severe disease course, including severity of dyspnea, frequency of exacerbations, and multivariate index scores. A high Charlson comorbidity index score was an adverse prognostic factor. (4) Conclusions: ASCVD influences the course of the disease and is a major cause of mortality in COPD patients.

The clinical efficacy of cefoperazone-sulbactam versus piperacillin-tazobactam in the treatment of severe community-acquired pneumonia.

The objective was to compare the clinical efficacy of cefoperazone-sulbactam with piperacillin-tazobactam in the treatment of severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP). The retrospective study was conducted from March 1, 2018 to May 30, 2019. Clinical outcomes were compared for patients who received either cefoperazone-sulbactam or piperacillin-tazobactam in the treatment of SCAP. A total of 815 SCAP patients were enrolled. Among them, 343 received cefoperazone-sulbactam, and 472 received piperacillin-tazobactam. Patients who received cefoperazone-sulbactam presented with higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores. (6.20 ± 2.77 vs 5.72 ± 2.61; P = .009). The clinical cure rates and effectiveness for patients receiving cefoperazone-sulbactam and piperacillin-tazobactam were 84.2% versus 80.3% (P = .367) and 85.4% versus 83.3% (P = .258), respectively. In addition, the overall mortality rate of the cefoperazone-sulbactam group was 16% (n = 55), which was also comparable to the piperacillin-tazobactam group (17.8%, n = 84, P = .572). The primary clinical outcomes for patients receiving cefoperazone-sulbactam were superior compared to those receiving piperacillin-tazobactam after adjusting disease severity status. The clinical efficacy of cefoperazone-sulbactam in the treatment of adult patients with SCAP is comparable to that of piperacillin-tazobactam. After adjusting for disease severity, cefoperazone-sulbactam tended to be superior to piperacillin-tazobactam.

Early Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in a Multisite Prospective Cohort of Inpatient Veterans.

Over 870 000 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections have occurred among Veterans Health Administration users, and 24 000 have resulted in death. We examined early outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection in hospitalized veterans. In an ongoing, prospective cohort study, we enrolled veterans age ≥18 tested for SARS-CoV-2 and hospitalized at 15 Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers between February 2021 and June 2022. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs), adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRRs), and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for maximum illness severity within 30 days of study entry (defined using the 4-category VA Severity Index for coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]), as well as length of hospitalization and rehospitalization within 60 days, in relationship with demographic characteristics, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), COVID-19 vaccination, and calendar period of enrollment. The 542 participants included 329 (61%) who completed a primary vaccine series (with or without booster; "vaccinated"), 292 (54%) enrolled as SARS-CoV-2-positive, and 503 (93%) men, with a mean age of 64.4 years. High CCI scores (≥5) occurred in 61 (44%) vaccinated and 29 (19%) unvaccinated SARS-CoV-2-positive participants. Severe illness or death occurred in 29 (21%; 6% died) vaccinated and 31 (20%; 2% died) unvaccinated SARS-CoV-2-positive participants. SARS-CoV-2-positive inpatients per unit increase in CCI had greater multivariable-adjusted odds of severe illness (aOR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.01-1.45), more hospitalization days (aIRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.03-1.10), and rehospitalization (aHR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.12). In a cohort of hospitalized US veterans with SARS-CoV-2 infection, those with a higher CCI had more severe COVID-19 illness, more hospital days, and rehospitalization, after adjusting for vaccination status, age, sex, and calendar period.

Evde Bakım Hizmeti Alan Geriatrik Hastalarda Disfaji Sıklığı ve İlişkili Risk Faktörleri

Objective: In our study, it was aimed to determine dysphagia prevalence in patients 65 years of age and older who were received home care and to assess factors associated with dysphagia. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in patients who were registered to Home Care Services of Samsun Training and Research Hospital between December 1, 2021, and March 1, 2022. In all patients, demographic data, level of dependence, nutrition methods, use of enteral nutrition supplement, body mass index (BMI), and comorbidity were assessed by Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) while dysphagia symptoms were assessed by Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) and nutritional status was assessed by Nutritional Risk Screening-2002 (NRS) using face-to-face interview method. Results: A total of 413 patients were included in our study, of which 62.5% (n=258) were female. Dysphagia symptoms were present in 44.6% (n=184). The dysphagia prevalence was significantly high in male patients (p=0.025), in patients aged ≥85 years (p=0.001), in those with high CCI score (p&amp;lt;0.001), in those with cerebrovascular disease (p&amp;lt;0.001), dementia (p&amp;lt;0.001), and hemiplegia (p=0.001), and in bedridden patients (p&amp;lt;0.001). Similarly, dysphagia prevalence was higher in patient with nutritional risk and those using enteral nutrition supplement (p&amp;lt;0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, it was found that dementia and increased nutritional risk were independent risk factors for presence of dysphagia symptoms (p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion: Our study showed a high prevalence of dysphagia in the geriatric patient population receiving home care. It has been determined that the rate of dysphagia is increased in patients with older age, nutritional risk, dementia, cerebrovascular disease, and multiple comorbidities.

#4820 RISK FACTORS FOR INPATIENT MORTALITY IN PATIENTS WITH NON-DIALYSIS CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE ADMITTED FOR COVID-19 USING A US NATIONAL SAMPLE

Abstract Background and Aims Several studies reported that the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected socioeconomically vulnerable populations. No study evaluated risk factors for inpatient mortality in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) admitted with the diagnosis of Covid-19, using a US nationwide sample. This study aimed to elucidate risk factors for mortality in patients with CKD during Covid-19 admissions. Method We extracted data from the National Inpatient Sample year 2020, the largest nationally representative inpatient-care database in the US. We created a cohort of all adults with CKD hospitalized for Covid-19 by ICD-10 codes. The outcome was inpatient mortality. We excluded patients with end stage kidney disease on maintenance dialysis and transplant patients. We compared baseline characteristics and used multiple logistic regression to determine risk factors for inpatient mortality in this cohort. Results Total of 201,460 admissions with a diagnosis of Covid-19 were detected in patients with non-dialysis CKD. Table 1 showed the baseline characteristics. The mean age was 72.8±0.2 years and females accounted for 43.6%. Of all, White accounted for 52.3%, followed by Black (26.1%) and Hispanic (14.6%). Inpatient mortality was 20.9%. Table 2 showed the results of the multivariable logistic model. Older patients, Males, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores were associated with a higher risk of inpatient mortality. White patients had a higher risk compared to Black patients and Native Americans had the highest risk, followed by other ethnic minorities, Hispanic, and Asians. Those from the lowest income households had the highest risk. Admission to a rural, publicly owned hospital and those located in the West and Northeast had higher odds of inpatient mortality. Conclusion Our study showed males, race, commercial payment type, lower income, and hospital settings such as regions and location were risk factors for inpatient mortality in patients with non-dialysis CKD. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether differences in clinical practice underly some of these risks.

Impact of comorbidities on the serological response to COVID-19 vaccination in a Taiwanese cohort

Background/AimsVaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is one of the best policies to control COVID-19 pandemic. The serological response to COVID-19 vaccination in Taiwanese patients with different comorbidities is elusive.MethodsUninfected subjects who received 3 doses of mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 [Pfizer-BioNTech, BNT] and mRNA-1273 [Moderna]), viral vector-based vaccines (ChAdOx1-S (AZD1222, AZ) or protein subunit vaccines (Medigen COVID-19 vaccine) were prospectively enrolled. The SARS-CoV-2-IgG spike antibody level was determined within three months after the 3rd dose of vaccination. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was applied to determine the association between vaccine titers and underlying comorbidities.ResultsA total of 824 subjects were enrolled in the current study. The proportions of CCI scores of 0–1, 2–3 and > 4 were 52.8% (n = 435), 31.3% (n = 258) and 15.9% (n = 131), respectively. The most commonly used vaccination combination was AZ–AZ–Moderna (39.2%), followed by Moderna–Moderna–Moderna (27.8%). The mean vaccination titer was 3.11 log BAU/mL after a median of 48 days after the 3rd dose. Factors associated with potentially effective neutralization capacity (IgG level ≥ 4160 AU/mL) included age ≥ 60 years (odds ratio [OR]/95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50/0.34–0.72, P < 0.001), female sex (OR/CI: 1.85/1.30–2.63, P = 0.001), Moderna–Moderna-based vaccination (compared to AZ–AZ-based vaccination, OR/CI: 6.49/3.90–10.83, P < 0.001), BNT–BNT-based vaccination (compared to AZ–AZ-based vaccination, OR/CI: 7.91/1.82–34.3, P = 0.006) and a CCI score ≥ 4 (OR/CI: 0.53/0.34–0.82, P = 0.004). There was a decreasing trend in antibody titers with increasing CCI scores (trend P < 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed that higher CCI scores (β: − 0.083; 95% CI: − 0.094–0.011, P = 0.014) independently correlated with low IgG spike antibody levels.ConclusionsSubjects with more comorbidities had a poor serological response to 3 doses of COVID-19 vaccination.

Impact of comorbidity burden on immune-related adverse events and survival among older adults with cancer on immunotherapy.

12061 Background: Comorbidities are more prevalent among older adults and predict worse outcomes for cytotoxic chemotherapy. Immunotherapies are increasingly used to treat various cancers and have a milder but less predictable toxicity profile. This study aimed to evaluate the association of comorbidity burden with immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and survival among older adults treated with these immunotherapies for any cancer type. Methods: We created a retrospective registry of consecutive patients ≥ 70 years old treated with one or more doses of an immune checkpoint inhibitor for any cancer indication between 2/1/2011- 4/7/2022 at our comprehensive cancer center. Treatment outcomes, including treatment-emergent adverse events, were captured via chart review. The comorbidity burden at the time of immunotherapy initiation was captured by chart abstraction and classified using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). We compared patients with high CCI scores (≥ 4) to patients with low CCI scores (CCI &lt;4) on the outcome of any irAE yes/no, using chi-square tests. We used the Kaplan-Meier method to compare progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) between the two CCI groups. Survival analyses were calculated from the first dose of immunotherapy to death, last follow-up, or disease progression. A two-sided alpha of 0.05 was used for analyses. The study had institutional IRB approval. Results: Our cohort consisted of 1,216 patients (median age 76 years [interquartile range 73 to 80]), of which 217 (18%) had a high CCI score. The most common comorbidities were chronic obstructive lung disease (45%), coronary artery disease (29%), and diabetes (29%). The most common cancer type was lung cancer (46%), followed by melanoma (15%). Patients with a high CCI score had a shorter median overall survival than patients with a low CCI (11.2 vs. 13.8 months, respectively, p = 0.049). However, there was no significant difference in PFS between the high and low CCI groups (median PFS 27.1 vs. 25.0 months, p=0.32). There was no association between the CCI group and the incidence of any-grade irAEs (39% vs. 40%, p = 0.82). There was also no association between CCI group and high-grade (grade ≥3) irAEs (17% vs. 15%, p = 0.35). We did not find any associations between any individual CCI comorbid condition and risk of irAE.1 Conclusions: A high comorbidity burden, as measured by the CCI, was not associated with increased immunotherapy toxicity or shorter PFS among older adults. The presence of comorbidities was associated with shorter OS. These data can support informed decision-making for older adults with comorbidity considering immunotherapy. Reference: 1. Charlson ME, Carrozzino D, Guidi J, Patierno C. Charlson Comorbidity Index: A Critical Review of Clinimetric Properties. Psychother Psychosom. 2022;91(1):8-35. doi: 10.1159/000521288. Epub 2022 Jan 6. PMID: 34991091.