Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Department of Infectious and Internal Medicine, Afzalipour Hospital, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
2 Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
Abstract
Background:
Hypokalemia frequently occurs in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‑19). Altered inflammatory and hematologic markers are known to correlate with disease severity. This study assessed hypokalemia prevalence and its relationship with laboratory findings and outcomes among hospitalized COVID‑19 patients.
Methods:
A cross‑sectional study was conducted on 527 adults admitted with COVID‑19 in Kerman, Iran (March 2021-March 2022). Hypokalemia (serum potassium <3.5 mmol/L) with demographic data, laboratory indices (C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), platelet and lymphocyte counts), and clinical outcomes were extracted from records. Groups were compared using Mann–Whitney U and Chi‑square tests, and multivariable regression identified predictors of intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mortality, and hospital stay.
Results:
Hypokalemia was found in 12.0% (n = 63), more frequent in females (68.3% vs 47.4%; p = 0.007) and younger patients (48.9 vs 54.2 years; p = 0.035). Mortality (7.9% vs 11.2%; p = 0.570), ICU admission (7.9% vs 10.0%; p = 0.747), and hospital stay (7.1 vs 8.0 days; p = 0.142) did not differ significantly. Adjusted analyses showed no association between hypokalemia and mortality (p = 0.905), ICU admission (p = 0.698), or length of stay (p = 0.623). Independent predictors of mortality and ICU admission were older age (p < 0.001, p = 0.004), higher LDH (p < 0.001), and lower lymphocyte count (p = 0.005, p = 0.002). LDH also predicted longer hospitalization (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
Hypokalemia was found common but not prognostic. Age, LDH, and lymphocyte count were stronger predictors of adverse outcomes.
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