Caution with the use of dexamethasone in patients with COVID-19 in its initial phases

Callejas Rubio, J. L.; Aomar Millan, I.; Moreno-Higueras, M.; Martín Ripoll, L.; Yuste Osorio, E.; Ríos-Fernández, R.

Introduction The effect of dexamethasone in the initial phase of infection by SARS-CoV-2 and its influence on COVID-19 is not well defined. We describe clinical-radiological characteristics, the cytokine storm parameters, and the clinical evolution of a series of patients treated with dexamethasone in the disease's initial phase. Method A study of 8 patients who received dexamethasone before the development of COVID-19. We evaluate clinical variables, imaging tests, cytokine release parameters, treatment used and patient evolution. Results All patients received a 6 mg/day dose with a mean duration of 4.5 days before admission. High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) revealed that most of them presented a severe extension; most patients had a slightly elevated level of cytokine release parameters. Three patients required high-flow oxygen therapy due to respiratory failure; none required orotracheal intubation or died. Conclusion Dexamethasone in the early stages of SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to be associated with severe COVID-19.