Comparison of Adenosine Deaminase Activity in COPD with Healthy Subjects

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease condition characterised by non-reversible airflow restriction. Emphysema, which is the damage and inflammation of the lung alveoli, is a component of COPD. It has been demonstrated that adenosine levels rise in COPD leading to reduction in adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity. Aim: We determined the activity of ADA in COPD patients. Methods: Sixty subjects were included in this case-control study who had an acute exacerbation of COPD. The activity of the ADA was measured in 20 COPD, 20 non-smokers, and 20 smokers who served as controls. Results: Total ADA activity was significantly lower in the COPD and smoking control groups (17.87±6.73, 18.09±8.9, and 21.90±6.4 U/L, respectively) than in the non-smoker group. Conclusion: Reduction in ADA activity may play an important role in the development of lung damage in COPD patients. Keywords: Adenosine deaminase (ADA); Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Lung.