Effect of demographic factors on CT findings and prognostic implications of imaging in COVID-19 participants: A multicenter study

Introduction: Studies show that chest computed tomography (CT) findings in patients with COVID-19 may differ among different populations, which could be attributed to demographic differences. The present study is done to provide evidence regarding the effect of demographic factors on imaging findings. Methods: This retrospective study involved 202 participants with COVID-19. The participants underwent CT imaging before hospitalization or on the first day of admission. Two expert radiologists determined each patient’s radiologic signs and symptoms. Results: by comparing dead participants and survivors, airspace consolidation, air Bronchogram, and posterior segment involvement were commonly seen in passing participants. Lung score and mean number of involved segments were higher in passing participants. Participants over 75 were less likely to have lymphadenopathy, septal thickening, and sub-pleural transparent lines. The area under the curve was 0.706 (95% CI: 0.631-0.782), higher among women older than 75. Conclusion: Although demographic features generally do not affect common imaging findings in COVID-19 participants, the prognostic significance of chest CT imaging may differ based on gender and age.