Glycemic Alterations in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: Hyperglycemia and Newly Detected Diabetes

The aim of this study is to describe the frequency of newly detected dysglycemia, including hyperglycemia and newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus, among hospitalized COVID-19 patients without previously known diabetes and to identify associated clinical and therapeutic factors, in an exploratory, descriptive manner.

We conducted a retrospective study on 562 COVID-19 patients. Demographic and clinical data were collected at admission and during hospitalization. Newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus was defined based on plasma glucose values meeting international diagnostic criteria during hospitalization in patients without prior diabetes, while newly altered blood sugar referred to transient hyperglycemia or impaired fasting glucose not fulfilling diabetes criteria. Comparisons between groups were performed using appropriate statistical tests, with a p-value < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Out of the total number of 562 COVID-19 patients, 14 (2.49%) were classified as having newly diagnosed diabetes, and 27 (4.8%) as having newly altered blood sugar levels. The median age of the participants was 67.5 years (interquartile range: 59.75; 71.75). Newly diagnosed diabetes was more frequently observed among patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms, elevated inflammatory markers, and those receiving specific in-hospital treatments. Newly altered blood sugar levels were more commonly associated with dyslipidemia, respiratory symptoms at admission, oxygen therapy, and selected COVID-19 treatments. COVID-19 vaccination status was descriptively stratified by admission period.

New interdisciplinary approaches may support the identification and monitoring of glycemic alterations in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, with potential implications for clinical management and public health strategies.