SARS-CoV2 in a population over 75 years old:differences with young people

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim of the study As of 17 June 2020, Italy had237.828 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infections, with about 35.000deaths;median age of cases 61 years, median age of deceased81 years. A single-center observational cohort study was conducted to evaluate clinical features, laboratory characteristicscomparing two groups of subjects by age (>75 and <75 years)admitted in the sub-intensive therapy of the COVID Unit HospitalF. Miulli (Acquaviva delle Fonti, Bari, Italy) from 17 march to 17may 2020.Materials and Methods: The data contained in the medicalrecords were studied.Results: A total of 174 patients hospitalized (60.4% males),mean age 68 yrs, with diagnosis of SARS-CoV2, were analyzed;they were divided into two groups >75 years and <75 years (110pts and 64 pts respectively). The group of older subjects had ahigher prevalence of comorbility (heart, kidney failure, COPD);mortality was more significant in subjects >75 years (37.3% vs 0.9%)compared to young people. No difference was observed in thelength of stay (21 days on average), while the younger subjectswere treated with hydroxychloroquine more than the elderly(83.6% vs 40.6% respectively) as well as with lopinavir / ritonavir(39.4% vs 14.5%).Conclusions: Our data, although referring to a small sample ofsubjects, show that patients over 75 years of age are more fragile(die more), have better comorbidities and have been under treatedcompared to younger subjects.