Severe acute respiratory syndrome in Taiwan: analysis of epidemiological characteristics in 29 cases

摘要: Abstract Objectives. To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Methods. Between March 28 June 30 '2003, 29 probable SARS seen at Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, were analysed. Results. Presenting symptoms included fever (100%), cough (69.0%), chills or rigor (62.1%), shortness breath (41.4%). Mean days to defervescence 6.8±2.9 days, but recurred in 15 (51.7%) 10.9±3.4 days. Common laboratory features lymphopenia (72.4%), thrombocytopenia (34.5%) elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (93.1, 62.1, 44.8%, respectively). All except one had initial abnormal chest radiographs 20 (69.0%) radiological worsening 7.5±2.6 Nine (31.0%) subsequently required mechanical ventilation four deaths (13.8%). Most deterioration responded pulse corticosteroid therapy (14 out 17) six complicated nosocomial infections. The risk factors associated disease presence diarrhoea, high peak LDH CRP, AST creatine kinase on admission values. Conclusions. Prudent use, vigilant microbiological surveillance appropriate antibiotics coverage are key successful treatment.