Evaluating the Relationship of Airflow Obstruction in COPD with Severity of OSA Among Patients with Overlap Syndrome.

Abstract

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are common diseases affecting millions worldwide. These two diseases have a complex relationship that is not well understood. Previous small studies suggest an inverse relationship of disease severity of OSA with COPD airflow obstruction.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine if a relationship exists between severity of airflow obstruction in COPD and severity of OSA via apnea hypopnea index obtained during an in-lab baseline polysomnogram using a large quaternary care center cohort.MethodsFrom November 2015 through December 2018, 273 patients with confirmed COPD via spirometry and OSA via in-lab baseline polysomnogram were included.ConclusionNo associations were noted between severity of airflow obstruction in COPD and disease severity of OSA. Given the heterogeneity of these diseases, further exploration of a relationship within disease subtypes is warranted.