Serial blood serum measurements of calprotectin and deoxyribonuclease in COVID-19 patients during hospitalization and recovery until one year: a prospective, multicenter, observational study

COVID‑19 non‑survivors showed persistently higher calprotectin levels during prolonged hospitalization, and elevated admission calprotectin was associated with later pandemic waves and poorer oxygenation. Incorporating calprotectin with ferritin improved prediction of ICU/HDU admission. DNase levels were lower at admission in non‑survivors, while overall DNase remained elevated from hospitalization through 1‑year follow‑up compared with HC, suggesting a possible role in long‑term COVID‑19-related immune alterations.