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Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 in COVID-19: An Observational Study.

Authors :: Myrou A
Aslanidis T
Makedou K
Mitsianis A
Thisiadou A
Karalazou P
Chatzopoulos G
Papadopoulos A
Kalis A
Giagkoulis D
Lezgidis F
Savopoulos C
Source :: Cureus [Cureus] 2023 Jul 27; Vol. 15 (7), pp. e42561. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Jul 27 (Print Publication: 2023).
Publication Year :: 2023
Abstract: Introduction: Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) belongs structurally to the endocrine FGF protein family, which also includes FGF19 and FGF21. In the past decade, FGF23 has emerged as a possible diagnostic, prognostic biomarker, and therapeutic target in several conditions. Data about COVID-19 and FGF23 is still limited, yet they suggest interesting interactions. Objective: In the present study, the levels of FGF23 were investigated in COVID-19 patients. These levels were also correlated with other inflammatory markers. Materials and Methods: In our prospective observational study, blood samples were collected from 81 patients admitted with COVID-19 (31 males and 50 females). We analyzed the relation of serum FGF23 levels with biochemistry, total blood count, coagulation parameters, and demographic data. Results: The distribution of FGF23 serum levels according to sex and age (n <subscript>28-40</subscript> =8, n <subscript>41-60</subscript> =28, n <subscript>65-75=</subscript> 25, n <subscript>75+</subscript> =20) was similar. No significant correlation between FGF23 and any other biochemistry, total blood count, and coagulation parameter was revealed in the whole sample. Nevertheless, there was a variation in the results among different age groups. Conclusion: FGF23 levels seem to vary in symptomatic COVID-19 infection, but well-organized studies with larger numbers of patients in each group are needed to determine any reliable correlation between FGF23 and other laboratory parameters. Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. (Copyright © 2023, Myrou et al.)