Clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 aged 90 years or older

Although the elderly population is significantly vulnerable to Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, research pertaining to this demographic remains relatively limited. Therefore, this study aimed to summarize the clinical characteristics, assess risk factors for death in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 aged ≥90 years, and provide insight into the treatment of severe/critically ill patients. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Beijing, including patients aged ≥90 years hospitalized with COVID-19 from December 1, 2022, to February 28, 2023. We collected clinical data and used a multivariable logistic regression model to identify mortality risk factors. The calibration curve further confirmed the predictive capabilities of the model. The study included 150 patients, with 54 severe/critical cases and an overall in-hospital mortality rate of 31 (20.7%) patients. Multivariable logistic regression revealed a decreased lymphocyte percentage (odd ratio (OR) 0.81 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72-0.92], P = .001) and venous thrombosis of lower limbs (OR 5.49 [95% CI 1.56-19.35], P = .008) significantly increased mortality risk. Paxlovid use within 5 days of symptom onset (OR 0.20 [95% CI 0.04-0.95], P = .042) reduced the risk. A decreased lymphocyte percentage and venous thrombosis of the lower limbs were associated with an increased risk of death. Conversely, the use of Paxlovid was correlated with a reduced risk of death among patients with COVID-19 aged ≥90 years.