Timing and causes of death in severe COVID-19 patients

Abstract Background Previous studies reporting the causes of death in patients with severe COVID-19 have provided conflicting results. The objective this study was to describe and timing admitted intensive care unit (ICU). Methods We performed a retrospective eight ICUs across seven French hospitals. All consecutive adult (aged ≥ 18 years) ICU PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection acute respiratory failure were included analysis. deaths reported based on medical records. Results From March 1, 2020, April 28, 287 for related failure. Among them, 93 died (32%). COVID-19-related multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) leading cause (37%). Secondary infection-related MODS accounted 26% deaths, majority ventilator-associated pneumonia. Refractory hypoxemia/pulmonary fibrosis responsible 19% cases. Fatal ischemic events (venous or arterial) occurred 13% median time from admission 15 days (25th–75th IQR, 7–27 days). had 14 IQR: 7–19 days), while only one during first 3 since admission. Conclusions In our multicenter observational study, secondary infections two death, among ICU.