C-reactive protein: a promising biomarker for poor prognosis in COVID-19 infection

Sahu, Bikash R; Kishor Kampa, Raj; Padhi, Archana; Panda, Aditya K.

BACKGROUND: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) break out from Wuhan, China, spread over 227 countries and caused approximately 0.3 million death worldwide. Several biomolecules have been explored for possible biomarkers for prognosis outcome. Although increased C reactive protein (CRP) has been associated with death due to COVID-19 infections, results from different populations remain inconsistent. For a conclusive result, the present meta-analysis was performed. METHODS: We conducted a literature survey in PubMed and Scopus database for the association of CRP concentration with COVID-19 disease outcomes. A total of 16 eligible studies were enrolled in the present analysis comprising of 1896 survivors and 849 non-survivors cases. Concentrations of CRP were compared and analyzed by a meta-analysis. RESULTS: Egger’s regression analysis (intercept=0.04, P=0.98, 95%CI=-5.48 to 5.58) and funnel plot revealed an absence of publication bias in the included studies. Due to the presence of significant heterogeneity across the studies (Q=252.03, P(heterogeneity)= 0.000, I(2)=93.65) random model was used for the analysis of the present study. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated a significant role of CRP in COVID-19 infection outcome (Standard difference in means= 1.371, P=0.000). CONCLUSIONS: Concentrations of CRP remained increased in patients who died in COVID-19 infection and could be a promising biomarker for accessing disease lethality.