Incidence and impact of disseminated intravascular coagulation in COVID-19 a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel infectious disease, with significant morbidity and mortality. This meta-analysis is to evaluate the prevalence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in COVID-19 patients and to determine the association of DIC with the severity and prognosis of COVID-19. Methods: We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database until August 12, 2020. The meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16.0 software. Results: 14 studies were included in our meta-analysis. The pooled analysis revealed that the incidence of COVID19 patients developing DIC was 3% (95%: 1%?5%, P < 0.001). In addition, deaths were more likely to be associated with DIC (Log OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 0.94?3.99, P < 0.001) with statistical significance. Conclusions: DIC is associated with the severity and poor prognosis of COVID-19 patients. Therefore, attention should be paid to coagulation dysfunction in COVID-19 patients. Monitoring of coagulation indicators may improve the prognosis of COVID-19 inpatients.

Automated summary

The meta-analysis found that the incidence of DIC in COVID-19 patients was 3%, and DIC was significantly associated with mortality in these patients. Monitoring coagulation indicators should be emphasized for improved prognosis in COVID-19 patients.