Body Mass Index, Airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea Research Articles

COPD and comorbidities in the Republic of Moldova

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and the majority of patients have at least one comorbid condition of clinical significance. Therefore, we studied its prevalence and implication based on experience from the Republic of Moldova. METHODS: The study was a prospective cohort study that included 435 patients with COPD from 2015 to 2017. RESULTS: We found heart failure in 38.62% of the patients, hypertension in 50.11%, coronary artery disease in 23.45%, diabetes mellitus in 10.11%, renal failure in 1.15%, rheumatoid arthritis in 3.22%, depression in 4.83%, cognitive impairment in 4.37%, obesity in 29.89%, and cachexia in 3.22%. Only 24.65% of patients did not have comorbidities. One comorbidity was found in 23.73%, two in 24.19%, three or more in 27.42%. The Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) had a medium negative correlation with the 6-minute walking test (r=–0.37, p<0.001) and a weak correlation with the rate of exacerbations (r=0.17, p=0.016). CCI had a strong correlation with ADO (age, dyspnea and airflow obstruction) (r=0.75, p<0.001); moderate with BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise) (r=0.3, p<0.001); and weak with BODEx (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exacerbations), CODEX (comorbidity, obstruction, dyspnea, and previous severe exacerbations), and DOSE (dyspnea, obstruction, smoking, and exacerbation). CCI had a medium correlation with St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) activity (r=0.36, p<0.001), impact (r=0.34, p<0.001), and total (r=0.37, p<0.001) scores, and the overall quality of life assessed by SGRQ and Clinical COPD Questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with COPD require a multidisciplinary approach to assess and manage a variety of conditions, which influence the evolution and prognosis of COPD. Patients often have one or two comorbidities of clinical significance, and they are predominantly cardiovascular and metabolic. Patients with comorbidities tend to have a poorer health-related quality of life. Comorbidities can be assessed by multidimensional indexes such as ADO and BODE.

Implementation and Effectiveness of a Veterans Affairs-Based Comprehensive Lung Cancer Survivorship Program.

Few programs exist to address persistent impairment in functional status, quality of life, and mental health in lung cancer survivors. We aimed to determine whether a 12-wk multimodal survivorship program imparts clinical benefit. Any patient at the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center with lung cancer and a Karnofsky score of ≥60 could participate. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease medications were optimized at the enrollment visit. Participants with a Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) score of >8 were offered pharmacotherapy and mental health referral. Participants did home-based exercise with a goal of 1 hr/d, 5 d/wk. They were called weekly to assess exercise progress and review depression/anxiety symptoms. Participants were offered pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation. Twenty-three (50%) of the first 46 enrollees completed the full 12-wk program. Paired changes from enrollment to completion (mean ± SD) were observed in 6-min walk test (73.6 ± 96.9 m, P = .002), BODE (Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise) index (-1.45 ± 1.64 points, P < .001), Duke Activity Status Index (3.84 ± 7.12 points, P = .02), Fried Frailty Index (-0.588 ± 0.939 points, P = .02), modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (-0.619 ± 1.284 points, P = .04), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung Emotional subscale score (1.52 ± 2.96 points, P = .03), HADS total score (-2.63 ± 4.34 points, P = .02), and HADS Anxiety subscale score (-1.47 ± 2.29 points, P = .01). A comprehensive Lung Cancer Survivorship Program provides clinically meaningful improvements in functional status, quality of life, and mental health.

Frailty Assessment in a Stable COPD Cohort: Is There a COPD-Frail Phenotype?

The frailty syndrome increases the morbidity/mortality in older adults, and several studies have shown a higher prevalence of this syndrome in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics of frail patients with COPD to define a new phenotype called "COPD-frail." We conducted a cross-sectional study in a cohort of patients with stable COPD, classified as either frail, pre-frail, or non-frail. Sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical variables were compared between the three groups of patients. The study included 127 patients, of which 31 were frail, 64 were pre-frail, and 32 non-frail. All subjects had FEV1/FVC below the lower limit of normal (range Z-score: −1.66 and −5.32). Patients in the frail group showed significantly higher scores in the mMRC (modified Medical Research Council) scale, the CAT (COPD Assessment Test), and the BODE (Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise capacity) index. They also showed differences in symptoms according to GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease), as well as more COPD exacerbations, less physical activity, more anxiety and depression symptoms based on HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and lower hemoglobin, hematocrit, and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol levels. Variables with independent association with frailty included the mMRC score, the HAD index for depression and age. In summary, differential characteristics of frail patients with COPD encourage the definition of a "COPD-frail" phenotype that−if identified early−would allow performing interventions to prevent a negative impact on the morbidity/mortality of these patients.

Fibrinogen: A Feasible Biomarker in Identifying the Severity and Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is no longer considered a disease exclusive to the respiratory system. It is a multipronged disease with both lung and systemic involvement. Although the forced expiratory volume (FEV) in one second is one of the most commonly used markers to assess disease severity, in recent years, biomarkers such as interleukin-1 beta, serum C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10, fibrinogen, soluble receptor for advanced glycation, surfactant protein D, and club cell secretory protein have been proven to be effective markers to assess disease severity.ObjectiveThe current study aimed to test the association of fibrinogen levels with increased exacerbation of COPD per year and lower lung function and to discuss its potential utility as a biomarker.MethodologyA total of 105 participants were enrolled in the study. The study participants included 35 stable COPD patients, 35 COPD patients with acute exacerbation, and 35 non-COPD healthy controls (matched for age and gender). All patients above 18 years of age who were diagnosed with COPD as per the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Disease (GOLD) guidelines were considered for inclusion in the study. The patients were divided into stable COPD group and acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) group based on the Anthonisen criteria. Sociodemographic factors, six-minute walk test, Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, and COPD Assessment Test scale were computed. Spirometry according to the American Thoracic Society guidelines and hematological investigations including serum fibrinogen were performed. Additionally, GOLD staging and severity indices were used to determine the clinical phenotyping of COPD, namely, ADO (age, dyspnea, airflow obstruction) index, BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index, and DOSE (dyspnea, obstruction, smoking, exacerbation) index.ResultsPlasma fibrinogen level was significantly higher in the COPD groups compared to the control group. Plasma fibrinogen level was elevated in AECOPD compared to stable COPD patients. In addition, fibrinogen levels showed a positive correlation with important functional indices and prognostic markers such as BODE, ADO, and DOSE indices and a negative correlation with lung function. The odds of predicting an acute exacerbation of COPD for patients with FEV of <50% and FEV of >50% were 17.2 (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.825; sensitivity = 90.4%; specificity = 62.79%) and 15.1 (AUC = 0.791; sensitivity = 57.7%; specificity = 92.5%), respectively.ConclusionsPlasma fibrinogen has the potential to be an important biomarker in the management of COPD and its exacerbation due to its ability to be responsive to the COPD disease statuses such as the severity of COPD and AECOPD.

Arterial stiffness can occur early in mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a well-known respiratory system disorder impacting patient’s morbidity and mortality. Many COPD patients die from cardiovascular diseases. Criteria of arterial stiffness might be the early clue for cardiovascular affection in COPD patients. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of arterial stiffness as an early subclinical change in stable mild to moderate COPD patients.ResultsThis cross-sectional study included 80 mild-to-moderate COPD patients and another 80 healthy controls. The carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) and the heart rate adjusted augmentation index (AIx75) were statistically significantly higher (13.8 ± 2.6 and 23.9 ± 10.8, respectively) among studied mild-to-moderate COPD patients when compared to healthy controls (10.7 ± 1.1 and 18.1 ± 8.9, respectively) (p < 0.001). FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 s) % of predicted correlated negatively with both AIx75 (r = − 0.84, p < 0.001) and cf-PWV (r = − 0.85, p < 0.001), while BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index correlated positively with both AIx75 (r = 0.58, p < 0.001) and cf-PWV (r = 0.52, p < 0.001) in patients with mild-to-moderate COPD.ConclusionsPulse wave velocity and augmentation index correlated with FEV1% of predicted and BODE index in patients with mild-to-moderate COPD.

Using the BODE Index and Comorbidities to Predict Health Utilization Resources in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Background and ObjectiveChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common chronic respiratory disease that in the long term may develop into respiratory failure or even cause death and may coexist with other diseases. Over time, it may incur huge medical expenses, resulting in a heavy socio-economy burden. The BODE (Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise capacity) index is a predictor of the number and severity of acute exacerbations of COPD. This study focused on the correlation between the BODE index, comorbidity, and healthcare resource utilization in COPD.Patients and MethodsThis is a retrospective study of clinical outcomes of COPD patients with complete BODE index data in our hospital from January 2015 to December 2016. Based on the patients’ medical records in our hospital’s electronic database from January 1, 2015 to August 31, 2017, we analyzed the correlation between BODE index, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), and medical resources.ResultsOf the 396 patients with COPD who met the inclusion criteria, 382 (96.5%) were male, with an average age of 71.3 ± 8.4 years. Healthcare resource utilization was positively correlated with the BODE index during the 32 months of retrospective clinical outcomes. The study found a significant association between the BODE index and the CCI of COPD patients (p < 0.001). In-hospitalization expenses were positively correlated with CCI (p < 0.001). Under the same CCI, the higher the quartile, the higher the hospitalization expenses. BODE quartiles were positively correlated with number of hospitalizations (p < 0.001), hospitalization days (p < 0.001), hospitalization expenses (p = 0.005), and total medical expenses (p = 0.024).ConclusionThis study demonstrates the value of examining the BODE index and comorbidities that can predict healthcare resource utilization in COPD.

Modified BODE Index to Predict Mortality in Individuals With COPD: The Role of 4-Min Step Test.

The BODE (body mass index, air-flow obstruction, dyspnea, exercise capacity) index is a composite prognostic marker that predicts mortality in COPD. It includes body mass index, air-flow obstruction, dyspnea score, and exercise capacity by using the 6-min walk distance. However, a 30-m-long corridor is necessary to perform the test and this limits its use in clinical practice. Step tests may elicit distinct physiologic responses compared with the 6-min walk test but are easy to perform in the office setting. We sought to investigate whether a 4-min step test would be a suitable surrogate of the 6-min walk test, in a modified BODE step index (simplified BODE index), to predict mortality in COPD. Individuals with COPD performed a self-paced 4-min step test, and the simplified BODE index was calculated by replacing the 6-min walk distance by the number of steps climbed. Cutoff values were determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis as follows: score 0 for >60 steps; score 1 for 50-60 steps; score 2 for 40-49 steps; and score 3 for <40 steps. A total of 186 individuals with COPD were enrolled from 2011 to 2016 (60% males; mean ± SD age, 65 ± 9 y; mean ± SD FEV1, 50 ± 17 L). There were 36 deaths among the study cohort. The simplified BODE index was a prognostic marker, independent of cardiovascular comorbidities and oxygen desaturation (HR 1.12, confidence interval (CI) [1.03-1.22]). Individuals with simplified BODE index scores ≥ 7 were at higher risk of death from any cause (P < .001, log-rank test). This was the first study, to our knowledge, to show that the 4-min step test as a surrogate of exercise capacity in the BODE index (simplified BODE index) is an independent predictor of mortality in COPD and may help to spread its use among practicing physicians.

The Peak Index: Spirometry Metric for Airflow Obstruction Severity and Heterogeneity.

Rationale: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow limitation. Spirometry loops are not smooth curves and have undulations and peaks that likely reflect heterogeneity of airflow.Objectives: To assess whether the Peak Index, the number of peaks adjusted for lung size, is associated with clinical outcomes.Methods: We analyzed spirometry data of 9,584 participants enrolled in the COPDGene study and counted the number of peaks in the descending part of the expiratory flow-volume curve from the peak expiratory flow to end-expiration. We adjusted the peaks count for the volume of the lungs from peak expiratory flow to end-expiration to derive the Peak Index. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to test associations between the Peak Index and lung function, respiratory morbidity, structural lung disease on computed tomography (CT), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) decline, and mortality.Results: The Peak Index progressively increased from Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease stage 0 through 4 (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, the Peak Index was significantly associated with CT emphysema (adjusted β = 0.906; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.789 to 1.023; P < 0.001) and small airways disease (adjusted β = 1.367; 95% CI, 1.188 to 1.545; P < 0.001), St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire score (adjusted β = 1.075; 95% CI, 0.807 to 1.342; P < 0.001), 6-minute-walk distance (adjusted β = -1.993; 95% CI, -3.481 to -0.506; P < 0.001), and FEV1 change over time (adjusted β = -1.604; 95% CI, -2.691 to -0.516; P = 0.004), after adjustment for age, sex, race, body mass index, current smoking status, pack-years of smoking, and FEV1. The Peak Index was also associated with the BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index and mortality (P < 0.001).Conclusions: The Peak Index is a spirometry metric that is associated with CT measures of lung disease, respiratory morbidity, lung function decline, and mortality.Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00608764).

A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial of Zephyr Endobronchial Valve Treatment in Heterogeneous Emphysema (LIBERATE).

This is the first multicenter randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Zephyr Endobronchial Valve (EBV) in patients with little to no collateral ventilation out to 12 months. To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Zephyr EBV in heterogeneous emphysema with little to no collateral ventilation in the treated lobe. Subjects were enrolled with a 2:1 randomization (EBV/standard of care [SoC]) at 24 sites. Primary outcome at 12 months was the ΔEBV-SoC of subjects with a post-bronchodilator FEV1 improvement from baseline of greater than or equal to 15%. Secondary endpoints included absolute changes in post-bronchodilator FEV1, 6-minute-walk distance, and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire scores. A total of 190 subjects (128 EBV and 62 SoC) were randomized. At 12 months, 47.7% EBV and 16.8% SoC subjects had a ΔFEV1 greater than or equal to 15% (P < 0.001). ΔEBV-SoC at 12 months was statistically and clinically significant: for FEV1, 0.106 L (P < 0.001); 6-minute-walk distance, +39.31 m (P = 0.002); and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire, -7.05 points (P = 0.004). Significant ΔEBV-SoC were also observed in hyperinflation (residual volume, -522 ml; P < 0.001), modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale (-0.8 points; P < 0.001), and the BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index (-1.2 points). Pneumothorax was the most common serious adverse event in the treatment period (procedure to 45 d), in 34/128 (26.6%) of EBV subjects. Four deaths occurred in the EBV group during this phase, and one each in the EBV and SoC groups between 46 days and 12 months. Zephyr EBV provides clinically meaningful benefits in lung function, exercise tolerance, dyspnea, and quality of life out to at least 12 months, with an acceptable safety profile in patients with little or no collateral ventilation in the target lobe. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 01796392).

COMET: a multicomponent home-based disease-management programme versus routine care in severe COPD.

The COPD Patient Management European Trial (COMET) investigated the efficacy and safety of a home-based COPD disease management intervention for severe COPD patients.The study was an international open-design clinical trial in COPD patients (forced expiratory volume in 1 s <50% of predicted value) randomised 1:1 to the disease management intervention or to the usual management practices at the study centre. The disease management intervention included a self-management programme, home telemonitoring, care coordination and medical management. The primary end-point was the number of unplanned all-cause hospitalisation days in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population. Secondary end-points included acute care hospitalisation days, BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnoea and exercise) index and exacerbations. Safety end-points included adverse events and deaths.For the 157 (disease management) and 162 (usual management) patients eligible for ITT analyses, all-cause hospitalisation days per year (mean±sd) were 17.4±35.4 and 22.6±41.8, respectively (mean difference -5.3, 95% CI -13.7 to -3.1; p=0.16). The disease management group had fewer per-protocol acute care hospitalisation days per year (p=0.047), a lower BODE index (p=0.01) and a lower mortality rate (1.9% versus 14.2%; p<0.001), with no difference in exacerbation frequency. Patient profiles and hospitalisation practices varied substantially across countries.The COMET disease management intervention did not significantly reduce unplanned all-cause hospitalisation days, but reduced acute care hospitalisation days and mortality in severe COPD patients.

Intensified Therapy with Inhaled Corticosteroids and Long-Acting β2-Agonists at the Onset of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection to Prevent Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations. A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-controlled Trial.

The efficacy of intensified combination therapy with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting β2-agonists (LABA) at the onset of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) symptoms in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unknown. To evaluate whether intensified combination therapy with ICS/LABA, at the onset of URTI symptoms, decreases the incidence of COPD exacerbation occurring within 21 days of the URTI. A total of 450 patients with stable, moderate to very severe COPD, were included in this investigator-initiated and -driven, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. At inclusion, patients were assigned to open-labeled low-maintenance dose ICS/LABA. Each patient was randomized either to intensified-dose ICS/LABA or placebo and instructed to start using this medication only in case of a URTI, at the onset of symptoms, twice daily, for 10 days. The incidence of any exacerbation following a URTI was not significantly decreased in the ICS/LABA group, as compared with placebo (14.6% vs. 16.2%; hazard ratio, 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.46-1.33; P = 0.321) but the risk of severe exacerbation was decreased by 72% (hazard ratio, 0.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.11-0.74%; P = 0.010). In the stratified analysis, effect size was modified by disease severity, fractional exhaled nitric oxide, and the body mass index-airflow obstruction-dyspnea, and exercise score. Compared with the stable period, evidence of at least one virus was significantly more common at URTI, 10 days after URTI, and at exacerbation. Intensified combination therapy with ICS/LABA for 10 days at URTI onset did not decrease the incidence of any COPD exacerbation but prevented severe exacerbation. Patients with more severe disease had a significant risk reduction for any exacerbation. Clinical trial registered with www.isrctn.com (ISRCTN45572998).

A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial of Zephyr Endobronchial Valve Treatment in Heterogeneous Emphysema (TRANSFORM).

Single-center randomized controlled trials of the Zephyr endobronchial valve (EBV) treatment have demonstrated benefit in severe heterogeneous emphysema. This is the first multicenter study evaluating this treatment approach. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Zephyr EBVs in patients with heterogeneous emphysema and absence of collateral ventilation. This was a prospective, multicenter 2:1 randomized controlled trial of EBVs plus standard of care or standard of care alone (SoC). Primary outcome at 3 months post-procedure was the percentage of subjects with FEV1 improvement from baseline of 12% or greater. Changes in FEV1, residual volume, 6-minute-walk distance, St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire score, and modified Medical Research Council score were assessed at 3 and 6 months, and target lobe volume reduction on chest computed tomography at 3 months. Ninety seven subjects were randomized to EBV (n = 65) or SoC (n = 32). At 3 months, 55.4% of EBV and 6.5% of SoC subjects had an FEV1 improvement of 12% or more (P < 0.001). Improvements were maintained at 6 months: EBV 56.3% versus SoC 3.2% (P < 0.001), with a mean ± SD change in FEV1 at 6 months of 20.7 ± 29.6% and -8.6 ± 13.0%, respectively. A total of 89.8% of EBV subjects had target lobe volume reduction greater than or equal to 350 ml, mean 1.09 ± 0.62 L (P < 0.001). Between-group differences for changes at 6 months were statistically and clinically significant: ΔEBV-SoC for residual volume, -700 ml; 6-minute-walk distance, +78.7 m; St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire score, -6.5 points; modified Medical Research Council dyspnea score, -0.6 points; and BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index, -1.8 points (all P < 0.05). Pneumothorax was the most common adverse event, occurring in 19 of 65 (29.2%) of EBV subjects. EBV treatment in hyperinflated patients with heterogeneous emphysema without collateral ventilation resulted in clinically meaningful benefits in lung function, dyspnea, exercise tolerance, and quality of life, with an acceptable safety profile. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02022683).

Outcomes of a telemonitoring-based program (telEPOC) in frequently hospitalized COPD patients.

BackgroundThe increasing prevalence of chronic diseases requires changes in health care delivery. In COPD, telemedicine appears to be a useful tool. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy (in improving health care-resource use and clinical outcomes) of a telemonitoring-based program (telEPOC) in COPD patients with frequent hospitalizations.Materials and methodsWe conducted a nonrandomized observational study in an intervention cohort of 119 patients (Galdakao-Usansolo Hospital) and a control cohort of 78 patients (Cruces Hospital), followed up for 2 years (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02528370). The inclusion criteria were two or more hospital admissions in the previous year or three or more admissions in the previous 2 years. The intervention group received telemonitoring plus education and controls usual care.ResultsMost participants were men (13% women), and the sample had a mean age of 70 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 second of 45%, Charlson comorbidity index score of 3.5, and BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index score of 4.1. In multivariate analysis, the intervention was independently related to lower rates of hospital admission (odds ratio [OR] 0.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27–0.54; P<0.0001), emergency department attendance (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.35–0.92; P<0.02), and 30-day readmission (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.29–0.74; P<0.001), as well as cumulative length of stay (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.46–0.73; P<0.0001). The intervention was independently related to changes in several clinical variables during the 2-year follow-up.ConclusionAn intervention including telemonitoring and education was able to reduce the health care-resource use and stabilize the clinical condition of frequently admitted COPD patients.

Usefulness of the 6-minute walk test as a screening test for pulmonary arterial enlargement in COPD.

PurposePulmonary hypertension and exercise-induced oxygen desaturation (EID) influence acute exacerbation of COPD. Computed tomography (CT)-detected pulmonary artery (PA) enlargement is independently associated with acute COPD exacerbations. Associations between PA to aorta (PA:A) ratio and EID in patients with COPD have not been reported. We hypothesized that the PA:A ratio correlated with EID and that results of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) would be useful for predicting the risk associated with PA:A >1.Patients and methodsWe retrospectively measured lung function, 6MWT, emphysema area, and PA enlargement on CT in 64 patients with COPD. The patients were classified into groups with PA:A ≤1 and >1. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to determine the threshold values with the best cutoff points to predict patients with PA:A >1.ResultsThe PA:A >1 group had lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1:FVC ratio, diffusion capacity of lung carbon monoxide, 6MW distance, and baseline peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), lowest SpO2, highest modified Borg scale results, percentage low-attenuation area, and history of acute COPD exacerbations ≤1 year, and worse BODE (Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise) index results (P<0.05). Predicted PA:A >1 was determined for SpO2 during 6MWT (best cutoff point 89%, area under the curve 0.94, 95% confidence interval 0.88–1). SpO2 <90% during 6MWT showed a sensitivity of 93.1, specificity of 94.3, positive predictive value of 93.1, negative predictive value of 94.3, positive likelihood ratio of 16.2, and negative likelihood ratio of 0.07.ConclusionLowest SpO2 during 6MWT may predict CT-measured PA:A, and lowest SpO2 <89% during 6MWT is excellent for detecting pulmonary hypertension in COPD.

Myocardial performance index correlates with the BODE index and affects quality of life in COPD patients.

Background and objectiveCOPD, a systemic illness associated with the impairment of different organs, affects patient prognosis and quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between right ventricle (RV) function, the BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index (a multifunctional scale for the assessment of mortality risk), and quality of life in patients with COPD.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out in 107 outpatients presenting with stable COPD who underwent clinical assessment, spirometry, arterial blood gas analyses, a 6-minute walk test, electrocardiography, and echocardiogram and who responded to the Saint George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ).ResultsAmong the study subjects, 53% (57/107) were males, and the mean age was 65.26±8.81 years. A positive correlation was observed between RV dysfunction measured by the myocardial performance index using tissue Doppler (MPIt) and the BODE index, even after adjustment for age and partial pressure of oxygen (r2=0.47; P<0.01). Patients with alterations in the MPIt had worse quality of life, and a statistically significant difference was found for different domains of the SGRQ. Patients with a normal MPIt had a mean total score of 46.2±18.6, whereas for those with MPIt alterations, the mean total score was 61.6±14.2 (P=0.005). These patients had a 1.49-fold increased risk of exhibiting SGRQ total score above the upper limit of the 95% CI (P=0.01).ConclusionThe findings of this study suggest that RV dysfunction as measured by the MPIt was associated with impairment in quality of life and a worse BODE index in COPD patients, irrespective of age and hypoxemia status.

Static and Functional Balance in Individuals With COPD: Comparison With Healthy Controls and Differences According to Sex and Disease Severity

Studies have shown that individuals with COPD have impaired body balance, probably caused by the disease's multisystemic manifestations plus age-related decline in balance, potentially increasing the risk of falling and its consequences. However, little is known about the profile of individuals with COPD who present balance impairments, especially related to sex and disease severity stages. The aim of this work was to compare static and functional balance between subjects with COPD and healthy controls and to check possible differences according to sex and degrees of disease severity. Forty-seven subjects with COPD and 25 healthy controls were included in this study. Their static balance was assessed in one-legged stance using a force platform and functional balance with the Timed Up and Go test. Additionally, participants performed spirometry, the 6-min walk test and isometric quadriceps maximal voluntary contraction assessment. Disease severity was classified according to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease stages and BODE (body mass index, air-flow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) scores. In comparison with healthy controls, subjects with COPD had worse static (center of pressure displacement area: 9.3 ± 1.9 cm2 vs 11.6 ± 4.0 cm2, respectively, P = .01) and functional balance (Timed Up and Go test: 8.5 ± 1.3 s vs 10.3 ± 1.8 s, respectively, P < .001). In the COPD group, men performed better in the Timed Up and Go test than women (9.8 ± 1.2 s vs 10.9 ± 2.2 s, respectively, P = .03), whereas women presented a better static balance in comparison with men for all parameters related to center of pressure (P < .005 for all). Disease severity did not affect any balance results. Individuals with COPD had worse static and functional balance in comparison with healthy controls. Sex can mediate these results, depending on the type of balance evaluation (force platform or functional test). Balance performance was similar among the groups classified according to disease severity.

Factors affecting the trajectory of health-related quality of life in COPD patients.

Health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) is an important issue in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as in other chronic illness groups. However, there is limited information on longitudinal changes in HR-QoL over time with the illness trajectory model. To identify different patterns of HR-QoL changes in longitudinal data, and reveal potential predictors affecting these trajectories. Subjects with COPD (n = 249) were drawn from the Korean Obstructive Lung Disease cohort, which was conducted from 2005 to 2012. Longitudinal data were drawn from the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire and clinical measures. Growth mixture modelling was used to estimate distinct patterns, and binary and ordinal logistic regression were used to determine factors affecting different trajectory HR-QoL patterns using STATA 12.0. Five distinct HR-QoL patterns were identified. Results show that the level of baseline HR-QoL was significantly associated with age, the BODE (Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise capacity) index at baseline, sleep disturbance, experience of exacerbation in previous year and level of depression. Distinct patterns in HR-QoL that improved vs. worsened were significantly associated with BODE index, number of respiratory symptoms and depression level. These findings suggest that comprehensive assessment and individualised management programmes are needed to improve HR-QoL in COPD patients.

Sildenafil in severe pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A randomized controlled multicenter clinical trial

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a well-known independent prognostic factor in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a sufficient criterion for lung transplant candidacy. Limited data are currently available on the hemodynamic and clinical effect of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors in patients with severe PH associated with COPD. This study assessed the effect of sildenafil on pulmonary hemodynamics and gas exchange in severe PH associated with COPD. After screening, this multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind trial randomized patients to receive 20 mg sildenafil or placebo 3 times a day (ratio 2:1) for 16 weeks. The primary end point was the reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance. Secondary end points included BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity) index, 6-minute walk test, and quality of life questionnaire. Changes in the partial pressure of arterial oxygen were evaluated as a safety parameter. The final population included 28 patients, 18 in the sildenafil group and 10 in the placebo group. At 16 week, patients treated with sildenafil had a decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance (mean difference with placebo -1.4 WU; 95% confidence interval, ≤ -0.05; p = 0.04). Sildenafil also improved the BODE index, diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide percentage, and quality of life. Change from baseline in the partial pressure of arterial oxygen was not significantly different between the sildenafil and placebo groups. This pilot study found that treatment with sildenafil reduced pulmonary vascular resistance and improved the BODE index and quality of life, without a significant effect on gas exchange.

Prognostic assessment in COPD without lung function: the B-AE-D indices.

Several composite markers have been proposed for risk assessment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, choice of parameters and score complexity restrict clinical applicability. Our aim was to provide and validate a simplified COPD risk index independent of lung function.The PROMISE study (n=530) was used to develop a novel prognostic index. Index performance was assessed regarding 2-year COPD-related mortality and all-cause mortality. External validity was tested in stable and exacerbated COPD patients in the ProCOLD, COCOMICS and COMIC cohorts (total n=2988).Using a mixed clinical and statistical approach, body mass index (B), severe acute exacerbations of COPD frequency (AE), modified Medical Research Council dyspnoea severity (D) and copeptin (C) were identified as the most suitable simplified marker combination. 0, 1 or 2 points were assigned to each parameter and totalled to B-AE-D or B-AE-D-C. It was observed that B-AE-D and B-AE-D-C were at least as good as BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnoea, exercise capacity), ADO (age, dyspnoea, airflow obstruction) and DOSE (dyspnoea, obstruction, smoking, exacerbation) indices for predicting 2-year all-cause mortality (c-statistic: 0.74, 0.77, 0.69, 0.72 and 0.63, respectively; Hosmer–Lemeshow test all p>0.05). Both indices were COPD specific (c-statistic for predicting COPD-related 2-year mortality: 0.87 and 0.89, respectively). External validation of B-AE-D was performed in COCOMICS and COMIC (c-statistic for 1-year all-cause mortality: 0.68 and 0.74; c-statistic for 2-year all-cause mortality: 0.65 and 0.67; Hosmer–Lemeshow test all p>0.05).The B-AE-D index, plus copeptin if available, allows a simple and accurate assessment of COPD-related risk.

The Body Mass Index, Airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea and Exercise Capacity (BODE) Index in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease for Saudi Population

Study objective: The objective of this study is to determine whether the BODE (body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea and exercise capacity) index correlates with frequency of exacerbation and smoking (pack/year) in patients with COPD Saudi Arabia. Methods: Forty COPD patients were recruited from King Fahad University Hospital and two sets of outcome were measured: the BODE index parameters and the correlation between BODE index with the frequency of exacerbation events as well as the number of packs of cigarettes that a patient consumes in a year. All the statistical analyses were carried out using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 21.0. Results: There was a positive correlation found between the BODE index and exacerbation events (r=0.389, n=23, p<0.05). However, for smoking frequency, the result of the correlation analysis showed that its correlation with the BODE index was not statistically significant (r=0.021, n=23, p=0.461). Those involved in the study were 23 participants after the application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, all are male with a mean age of 67.70 years. The results show that while a correlation was observed for exacerbation, the correlation with smoking frequency was not significant. The analysis also identified age as a factor that has significant correlation with the BODE index which is may be due to the lack of control and uniformity in the age range of the participants. Conclusion: This study results suggest that the BODE index could potentially be used in Saudi patients with COPD to assess disease progression. However, variable controls be emphasized and better gender representation be achieved in future study.