Blood cell size may reveal COVID-19 severity in ICU patients

NCT ID NCT07244731

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This completed study from Ankara University looked at 146 severe COVID-19 patients in the ICU. Researchers measured red blood cell distribution width (RDW), a marker of variation in red blood cell size, to see if it could predict whether patients would need a breathing tube or die. The goal was to find a simple, inexpensive tool to help doctors make better decisions in the ICU.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors use a simple blood test to predict which COVID-19 patients in the ICU are at higher risk of death or needing a breathing tube.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It only shows a possible link, not cause and effect. The results may not apply to all COVID-19 patients.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

COVID-19

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Ankara University

    Ankara, Ankara, 06340, Turkey (Türkiye)