[aristeides]

In a multivariate analysis, the independent predictors of an adverse outcome were advanced age (odds ratio per decade of life, 1.80; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.16 to 2.81; P=0.009), a high peak lactate dehydrogenase level (odds ratio per 100 U per liter, 2.09; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.28 to 3.42; P=0.003), and a high absolute neutrophil count on presentation (odds ratio, 1.60; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.03 to 2.50; P=0.04).

Not much you can do about your age. But is it possible to do anything about the other two variables?

[HiTech RedNeck]

And I wonder if these have to do with the way the body reacts to a SARS infection, rather than the way it was before the infection. Of course in China, they might well BE getting these readings before exposure. Shoot, they sacrifice political prisoners for organs, why not figure they're now making them guinea pigs for SARS?

[RJCogburn]

is it possible to do anything about the other two variables?

I think these are more likely markers, or predictors, rather than causes of poor outcome.