Renal Function Derangement in COVID-19 Patients: A Hospital Based Study

Abstract

Introduction: The global pandemic coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) emerged as an unpredicted emergency devastation at the beginning of year 2020 claimed millions of lives worldwide. This disease is not only restricted to the lungs damage but also responsible for the injuries to the other organs such as heart, liver and kidneys. The exact mechanism of kidney injury triggered by COVID-19 is not well known yet. This study aims to observe the effect on renal function test of COVID-19 infected patients.
Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out on 150 COVID-19 patients visiting KIST Medical College and Teaching Hospital between July 2021 to September 2021. Convenience sampling method was used for sample collection from the COVID-19 patients whose renal function test was referred by the treating physicians and data was collected using a performa tool. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed in which frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation (SD) were calculated.
Results: Out of total 150 COVID-19 patients, mean age is 49.7±16.2 years with male dominance (65.33%). Majority of the patients (72.66%) were 40 years and above of age. Most of the patient admitted in the hospital had mild COVID-19 infections (74.66%). Forty six (30.7%) patients had high serum urea and 23 patients (15.3%) had raised creatinine level. Similarly, electrolyte imbalances such as hyponatremia and hypokalemia were found in 15.33% and 10.66% COVID-19 patients respectively.
Conclusion: A renal function derangement in patients with COVID-19 infection is common. Frequent monitoring of renal damage markers may be required in preventing further kidney injury.