Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Patients with Celiac Disease: a Multicenter Research Network Study

Background Celiac disease (CD) is associated with an increased risk for respiratory infections and severe outcomes. No data have been reported in the scientific literature regarding the outcomes of COVID-19 in this population. The aim of this study was to report matched clinical outcomes in a large cohort of 930 patients with COVID-19 in the setting of known CD. Methods Analysis of a multicenter research network TriNETX was performed, including COVID-19 patients aged more than 16 years. Outcomes of COVID-19-positive patients with concurrent CD were compared with a propensity-matched cohort of patients without CD. Results A total of 341,499 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified on the research network: 930 (0.27%) with CD and 340,569 (99.73%) without CD. In the 30- and 60-day periods post SARS-CoV-2 infection, 12 (1.29%) and 13 (1.40%) deaths, respectively, were reported in the CD group. Fewer patients in the CD group reached the composite outcome of either mechanical ventilation or mortality at 60 days (risk ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.36-0.95). After propensity matching, no difference in clinical outcomes was observed. Conclusion Our data suggest that patients with CD are not at increased risk of COVID-19-related morbidity or mortality.