The association between early corticosteroid use and the risk of secondary infections in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: a double-edged sword. Results from the international SCCM discovery viral infection and respiratory illness universal study (VIRUS) COVID-19 registry.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Corticosteroids improve survival in hospitalized COVID-19 patients needing supplemental oxygen. However, concern exists about increased risk of secondary infections. This study investigated the impact of early corticosteroids use on these infections.

Methods

Data from the Society of Critical Care Medicine Discovery Viral Infection and Respiratory Illness Universal Study (VIRUS): COVID-19 registry were analyzed for adult patients, stratified by early corticosteroid use (within 48 h of admission). The primary outcome was documented secondary infections, including bacteremia, bacterial pneumonia, empyema, meningitis/encephalitis, septic shock, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the associat

SUBMITTER: Bansal V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11868930 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature