General characteristics of pneumonia cases developed during H1N1 epidemic in Turkey and prognostic factors

Aim-method: This multicentric study took place in Turkey to evaluate general characteristics of pneumonia developed during H1N1 epidemic between Nov-2009 and Jan-2010 and to evaluate prognostic factors. Patient data were collected from centers agreed to participate in the study retrospectively by means of standard forms. Findings: From 14 different centers, a total of 264 cases were included in the study. Of the patients, 51.1% were female, 48.9% were male. Mean age was 47.5±18.6 yrs. H1N1 were positive in 57.4% of cases. Nineteen patients (7.2%) were pregnant or had a new birth. On admission, 28 cases (11%) were confused and 7 (2.8%) were unconscious. Of the patients, 32.6% were treated in ICU and IMV/NIMV was performed in 29.7%. The length ICU stay was 2.9±6.2 and total hospital stay was 12.0±9.4 days. These periods were significantly longer in the H1N1-positive patients. Mortality rate was 16.8% (43-cases) (23% in H1N1-positive and 8.4% in negative patients, p=0.004). Mortality was significantly higher in H1N1-positive patients, those with dyspnea, cyanosis, confusion/unconsciousness, diastolic hypotension, and those with higher respiratory (≥30) and hearth rate (≥100) on application. Again, patients who died had significantly higher rate of peripheral blood neutrophils, lower platelet counts, higher BUN levels and lower SaO2 levels. Conclusion: This study showed that pneumonia, developed during H1N1 epidemic in our country, had resulted in a high mortality. Mortality was especially higher in H1N1-positive patients, those with dyspnea, cyanosis, confusion/unconsciousness, diastolic hypotension and those with higher respiratory rate and hearth rate.