OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the predictive value of plasma D-D (D-dimer) and CRP (C-reactive protein) levels for mortality risk among elderly patients with severe pneumonia. METHODS: Clinical data of 119 patients treated between February 2022 and February 2024 were collected and retrospectively analyzed. Based on survival outcomes, the patients were categorized into a survival group (72 patients) and a death group (47 patients). The D-D and CRP levels were compared between the two groups, and their potential as prognostic markers for mortality risk in elderly patients with severe pneumonia were also assessed. RESULTS: The levels of D-D and CRP in the death group were significantly higher than those in the survival group (all P<
0.05). D-D had an AUC (area under the curve) of 0.601, with a specificity of 63.83% and a sensitivity of 55.56%. CRP had an AUC of 0.624, with a specificity of 48.94% and a sensitivity of 72.22%. Both biomarkers showed good predictive value. Multivariate Cox regression analysis further confirmed that elevated D-D and CRP levels were independent prognostic factors influencing patient prognosis (P<
0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated levels of D-D and CRP are associated with poorer prognosis and increased mortality risk in elderly patients with severe pneumonia. These findings highlight the potential of these two biomarkers as valuable biomarkers for guiding clinical decision-making and management strategies in this patient population.