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. 2021 Sep 1;67(9).
doi: 10.7754/Clin.Lab.2021.210142.

Inflammatory Markers and Cytokines in Moderate and Critical Cases of COVID-19

Soon Hee Chang, Dohsik Minn, Shin-Woo Kim, Yu Kyung Kim

Inflammatory Markers and Cytokines in Moderate and Critical Cases of COVID-19

Soon Hee Chang et al. Clin Lab. .

Abstract

Background: Inflammatory responses have been suggested to be associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study investigated the inflammatory markers and cytokines in COVID-19 according to its severity.

Methods: We enrolled 49 patients with COVID-19, who were classified as either moderate or critical cases. Serum or plasma interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were measured.

Results: Lactate dehydrogenase, ferritin, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin levels were significantly higher in the critical group than in the moderate group (p < 0.001). IL-6 and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the critical group, with elevated IL-6 levels from the first to third weeks after confirmed PCR (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Inflammatory markers and cytokines were increased in COVID-19 and closely related to the severity of the disease. We recommend early active monitoring of IL-6 levels along with inflammatory markers for severe COVID-19.

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