Brixia Chest X-ray Severity Scoring System is in Relation with C-reactive Protein and D-dimer Values in Patients with COVID-19.

Background: The Brixia scoring system interpreted chest X-ray changes, serves as an indicator of the extent of changes in the lung parenchyma.

Objective: To indicate the effect of D-dimer and C-reactive protein (CRP) on Brixia score in patients with positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Methods: The research had prospective, descriptive and analytical character, and included patients (n=104) with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis. Chest X-ray, as well as calculation of Brixia score was done on admission, in the first week of hospitalization, on discharge, and 10 days after discharge (the patient was considered a post-COVID patient. Maximum CRP and D-dimer values were taken into account, along with data about dependence of mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy.

Results: Initial Brixia score was significantly associated with the values of CRP (r = .23, p <.05). Higher level of CRP affected the higher result on the Brixia score after the initial X-ray. High CRP and D-dimer were significantly associated with oxygen use in patients, while high D-dimer was also statistically significantly associated with comorbidity. The mean value of Brixia score (during four time points) was significantly related to the values of CRP, D-dimer, the use of mechanical ventilation and oxygen therapy, but also with the existence of comorbidities. The largest statistically significant positive correlation of Brixia scora is with the values of D-dimer (r = .45, p <.000), but also with the values of CRP (r = .36, p <.000).

Conclusion: Values of CRP have an impact on Brixia score. Investigation of clinical characteristics and outcomes of severe clinical presentation of COVID-19 along with CXR scoring system will contribute to early prediction, accurate diagnosis and treatment as well as to improve the prognosis of patients with severe illness.