The short-term follow-up of patients with diabetes mellitus presenting with COVID-19
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM), significantly increasing their risk of adverse outcomes. This retrospective study aimed to explore the underlying factors contributing to the heightened vulnerability of individuals with DM to severe COVID-19. We reviewed medical records of patients diagnosed with DM from August 2020 to August 2022 and identified 60 equally divided into two groups. Group A (n = 30) included those diagnosed with an associated COVID-19 infection, while Group B (n = 30) served as the control group without a COVID-19 infection. Inflammatory biomarkers, venous blood glucose levels, and other parameters were assessed at hospital admission and again after a 14-day treatment period. Statistical analysis confirmed a strong association between diabetes and COVID-19 infection. In COVID-19 patients treated with Empagliflozin, correlations were observed between IL-1, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and blood glucose levels. Patients in Group B did not show significant improvements in inflammatory markers or blood glucose control. In contrast, in the first group, better correlations between interleukin levels and blood glucose were demonstrated, suggesting a higher success rate for that treatment. Our findings indicate that while Empagliflozin had limited efficacy in managing long-term diabetes-related complications, it might offer significant benefits in the acute phase of illness.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 30 participants or records.
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