Yinfeng Wang, Xiaogen Tao, Peng Jin

Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, People’s Republic of China

Correspondence: Xiaogen Tao; Peng Jin, Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, People’s Republic of China, Email taoxgg@ustc.edu.cn; jinpeng1986@ustc.edu.cn

Background: This study examines the clinical outcomes and prognostic factors of COVID-19 in renal transplant recipients. Given their immunosuppressed status, these patients are at higher risk of severe complications from COVID-19. The study aims to provide healthcare professionals with critical insights for diagnosing and managing this vulnerable population.
Patients and methods: This retrospective cohort study included adult renal transplant recipients diagnosed with COVID-19. Data on demographics, medical history, laboratory results, and patient outcomes were analyzed to identify clinical characteristics and prognostic factors.
Results: This study included 115 renal transplant recipients with COVID-19, predominantly male, with a mortality rate of 10.4% (12 deaths). The overall vaccination rate was 20%. Univariate analysis showed significant differences between survivors and non-survivors in initial serum creatinine levels, and percentages of neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes, along with CRP levels on day 3. Additionally, CRP levels, hemoglobin, and platelet counts on day 7 also differed significantly. Multivariate analysis identified CRP levels on days 3 and 7, day 7 hemoglobin and platelet counts, and concurrent bacterial infections as independent risk factors for mortality.
Conclusion: Elevated CRP levels, renal impairment, and bacterial co-infections play a significant role in the outcomes of COVID-19 in kidney transplant recipients. This study highlights the importance of monitoring these factors for early identification and management of high-risk patients.

Keywords: COVID-19, renal transplant recipients, clinical outcomes, prognostic factors, immunosuppression