Prognostic implication of uncontrolled hypertension in hospitalized patients with COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of hypertension (HT) and antihypertensive treatment on prognosis, which is one of the cardiovascular risk factors affecting the prognosis of COVID-19.

Methods: We included 117 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 by nasopharyngeal polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The patients were divided into a hypertensive group and a control group. Biochemical, complete blood count and imaging data of the patients were recorded. Mortality of patients with and without HT was evaluated. The effect of antihypertensive therapy on mortality was evaluated.

Results: In thorax CT, ground glass opacity and pneumonic consolidation were found statistically significantly higher in the hypertensive group (p <0,001). Hospital stay duration (days) of the patients were significantly longer in the hypertensive group and need for intensive care unit was statistically higher in the hypertensive group (p <0,001). Mortality of hypertensive patients was higher than of those without hypertension (p <0,001). There was no statistically significant difference in mortality in antihypertensive treatment groups (p = 0,801).

Conclusion: Hypertension is an important risk factor that increases mortality in COVID-19 patients. Uncontrolled hypertension was common in most patients. Inflammatory parameters are higher especially in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension have a higher risk of mortality. There is no data to suggesting that the use of ACEI/ARB worsens prognosis. High blood pressure on admission to the hospital is important and the patient's current antihypertensive therapy should not be discontinued.