Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
İzmir Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi Tıp Dergisi, cilt.29, sa.4, ss.376-381, 2025 (TRDizin)
SUMMARY Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between zinc, copper, magnesium, and folate levels and mortality as well as clinical prognosis in patients monitored in the intensive care unit due to COVID-19. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 237 adult patients admitted to a tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) between April 1 and October 31, 2021, with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 by PCR. Trace element levels were measured within the first 24 hours of ICU admission. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory findings, APACHE-II scores, mechanical ventilation requirements, and mortality data were recorded. Statistical analyses included correlation tests, multivariable regression, and survival analysis. Results: The mean age was 69.2 ± 15.1 years, and 35.9% were female. Overall mortality was 59% (n=140). Nonsurvivors had significantly higher APACHE-II scores, increased mechanical ventilation requirements, and elevated İzmir Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi Tıp Dergisi (Medical Journal of İzmir Hospital) 29 (4): 376-381, 2025 376 inflammatory markers (p<0.001). Copper levels were positively correlated with APACHE-II scores (r=0.14; p=0.031). Strong positive correlations were observed among magnesium, zinc, and copper levels (r=0.45–0.50; p<0.01). In the Cox regression model, lower folate levels were independently associated with increased mortality risk (HR=0.85; p=0.034). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed no significant survival difference between sexes (p=0.312). Conclusion: In critically ill COVID-19 patients, copper and zinc levels were associated with survival time, whereas low folate levels independently increased mortality risk. Incorporating trace element assessment into prognostic evaluations may provide additional benefit in patient management. Further prospective studies are necessary to establish causal relationships.