Borg Dyspnea Score Research Articles

Safety, Efficacy, and Feasibility of Nebulized Long-Acting Bronchodilators vs Short-Acting Bronchodilators in Hospitalized Patients With Acute Exacerbations of COPD: A Phase IV, Randomized, Parallel-Group Clinical Trial

BackgroundLong-acting bronchodilators are preferred over short-acting bronchodilators in patients with stable COPD, but prospective studies are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of nebulized long-acting bronchodilators in hospitalized patients with exacerbations of COPD (ECOPD). MethodsWe conducted a prospective, randomized, parallel-group study comparing a nebulized formoterol/revefenacin combination with an albuterol/ipratropium combination among n = 60 hospitalized patients (n = 30 in each group) with ECOPD who tested negative for COVID-19. Treatments were administered q12 to 24 hrs (formoterol/revefenacin), or q6 hrs (albuterol/ipratropium) by jet nebulizers for up to 7 days. Safety and efficacy assessments were recorded on days 1, 3, and 7, or at hospital discharge. Assessment of dyspnea by the Modified Borg dyspnea scale was the primary outcome. Data were analyzed with parametric or non-parametric statistical tests, and generalized estimating equations with an identity link function were used to analyze differences in the two groups. Statistical significance was assumed at an unadjusted two-sided alpha value of 0.05. ResultsParticipants’ mean age was 63.2 (SD 9.30) years, and 39 (65.0%) were current smokers. Patients' age, sex, race, smoking history, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, supplemental oxygen requirements, and length of hospital stay were similar in the two groups (p>0.05 for all). Patients receiving formoterol/revefenacin had similar Modified Borg dyspnea scores (p = 0.95) and required fewer total drug doses (P<0.001), but there was a non-significant trend for more frequent rescue treatments (p=0.08) compared to those receiving albuterol/ipratropium. There were no serious adverse events or treatment failures in either group. ConclusionIn non-ventilated hospitalized patients with ECOPD, the institution of nebulized formoterol/revefenacin in combination within 24 to 36 hours of hospital admission provided convenient dosing and required fewer drug doses to achieve comparable efficacy and safety with the standard short-acting nebulized albuterol/ipratropium combination.

The acute effect of inhaled nitric oxide on the exercise capacity of patients with advanced interstitial lung disease: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundInhaled nitric oxide (iNO) selectively acts on the pulmonary vasculature of ventilated lung tissue by reducing pulmonary vascular resistance and intrapulmonary shunt. This effect may reduce ventilation/perfusion mismatch and decrease pulmonary hypertension in patients with interstitial lung disease.MethodsIn a prospective, single-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, participants with advanced interstitial lung disease, underwent two separate six-minute walk tests (6MWT): one with iNO and the other with a placebo. The primary outcome measured the difference in meters between the distances covered in the two tests. Secondary outcomes included oxygen saturation levels, distance-saturation product, and Borg dyspnea score. A predefined subgroup analysis was conducted for patients with pulmonary hypertension.ResultsOverall, 44 patients were included in the final analysis. The 6MWT distance was similar for iNO treatment and placebo, median 362 m (IQR 265-409) vs 371 m (IQR 250-407), respectively (p = 0.29). Subgroup analysis for patients with pulmonary hypertension showed no difference in 6MWT distance with iNO and placebo, median 339 (256-402) vs 332 (238-403) for the iNO and placebo tests respectively (P=0.50). No correlation was observed between mean pulmonary artery pressure values and the change in 6MWT distance with iNO versus placebo (spearman correlation Coefficient 0.24, P=0.33).ConclusionIn patients with advanced interstitial lung disease, both with and without concurrent pulmonary hypertension, the administration of inhaled nitric oxide failed to elicit beneficial effects on the six-minute walk distance and oxygen saturation. The use of inhaled NO was found to be safe and did not lead to any serious side effects.Trial registration(NCT03873298, MOH_2018-04-24_002331).

Clinical utility of the Borg dyspnoea score in 6-minute walk tests in interstitial lung disease: A systematic review

BackgroundExertional dyspnoea, a cardinal symptom in interstitial lung disease (ILD), can be objectively measured during a 6-min walk test (6MWT) using the Borg Dyspnoea Score (BDS). However, the clinical utility of this measurement is unclear. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the association between 6MWT BDS and prognosis (mortality and lung transplantation), other 6MWT variables and measures of pulmonary function. MethodsMEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane and SCOPUS databases were used to identify studies reporting an association between post-6MWT BDS and the relevant outcomes in adults with ILD. Language was limited to English. Study quality was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Study risk of bias tool. A narrative synthesis for each outcome was performed. ResultsTen full-text studies (n = 518) were included. Four studies had high overall risk of bias. Two studies (n = 127) reported prognosis and both found that higher 6MWT BDS was associated with increased all-cause mortality. However, the certainty of evidence was very low due to study design and likely publication bias. Higher post-6MWT BDS may be associated with shorter, or no effect on 6MWD; and lower pulmonary function. There was insufficient evidence that BDS correlated with 6MWT oxygen saturation. ConclusionsPost-6MWT BDS has a potential role as a predictor of all-cause mortality in ILD, 6MWD and lower pulmonary function. Larger studies designed to confirm these relationships and assess the independent association between the 6MWT BDS and clinical outcomes are required.

Effect of a Ventilatory Assist Device in Addition to Supplemental Oxygen on Exercise Endurance in Subjects With COPD.

This study assessed the clinical effects of a ventilatory assist (VA) device in addition to supplemental O2 (VA+O2) on exercise endurance in subjects with severe to very severe COPD managed with long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT). This was a crossover clinical feasibility study of the effects of VA+O2 in subjects with severe to very severe COPD managed with LTOT (N = 15). At visit 1, physiologic measures were obtained, and subjects were tested on the cycle ergometer with VA. Peak work rate and flow for continuous supplemental O2/VA+O2 were established. At visit 2, subjects exercised at a constant work rate of 80% peak work rate to maximum endurance after allocation to VA+O2 or O2. Cardiorespiratory variables, work rate, and dyspnea were included to define potential clinical benefits of VA+O2. Data were analyzed using a linear mixed model. Fifteen subjects with COPD (mean ± SD, age 67.9 ± 9.0 y, FEV1 0.89 ± 0.35 observed) completed the study. Exercise duration in minutes was significantly longer with VA+O2 versus O2 (least squares mean [standard error], 12.0 [2.0] vs 6.2 [2.0], P = .01). VA+O2 versus O2 was also associated with significantly greater isotime improvements in Borg dyspnea scores (3.6 [0.5] vs 5.7 [0.5], P < .001), SpO2 (96.9 [0.9] vs 91.4 [0.9], P < .001), leg fatigue scores (3.8 [0.6] vs 5.2 [0.6], P = .008), and breathing frequency (22.8 [0.9] vs 25.8 [0.9] breaths/min, P = .01). There were no differences in heart rate. In symptomatic subjects with severe to very severe COPD, VA+O2 significantly increased exercise time and improved dyspnea, SpO2 , breathing frequency, and leg fatigue versus O2 alone.

Therapeutic effects of multidisciplinary individualized treatment for COVID-19 patients: the experience of a supporting medical team in Wuhan.

The sudden outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has brought people around the world into an abyss of suffering. At that time, there were no clear and effective means for the treatment of the virus. We prepared a medical team consisted of specialists in critical care, respiratory diseases, infections, gastroenterology, endocrinology, cardiology, cerebrovascular diseases, nephrology, rehabilitation, psychology, and nutrition. This study shared our multidisciplinary treatment experience in treating patients with COVID-19. Patients with positive SARS-CoV-2 swab test were divided into three groups: ordinary cases, severe cases and critical cases. Every patient received the multi-disciplinary comprehensive and individualized tailored treatment based on the specific situation of each patient. Patients' medical records, epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, radiological characteristics, Borg dyspnea score, Barthel index, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) as well as treatment and outcome data were analyzed. The mean age of the 90 patients was 61.88±15.25 years. Some patients without underlying disease had developed comorbidities such as hyperglycemia (24, 26.67%) and hypertension (9, 10%). With multidisciplinary individualized treatment, the patients' albumin level and Barthel index score increased significantly, while glucose level, blood pressure, and Nutrition Risk Screening 2002 (NRS-2002), Borg scale, and SAS values significantly decreased at discharge. The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.44%. However, there was still a gap in Nutrition Risk Screening, Borg dyspnea score and Barthel index between the critical cases and the ordinary and severe cases at discharge. We observed that the patients with more severe disease had significantly higher age, rates of hypertension, and mortality. The median hospitalization time of discharged patients was 19 days [interquartile range (IQR), 9.0-20.0 days]. Multidisciplinary collaboration and individualized treatment could effectively improve the general status of patients with different severity of COVID-19.

Examining the potential risk factors for variable airflow limitation in patients recovering from SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection: A case-control study

The Omicron strain of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally. However, it remains uncertain whether variable airflow limitation (VAL) occurs during the recovery phase after contracting the Omicron variant. To address this question, we conducted a study to examine the occurrence of VAL in patients infected with the Omicron variant (BA.1) of SARS-CoV-2, and we also investigated the potential risk factors associated with this phenomenon. We summarized and analyzed data taken from the electronic health records of recovering patients who had contracted the Omicron variant. The information was obtained from the Shuixi Branch of our Hospital during the period from January 22 to February 24, 2022. We focused on examining the occurrence of VAL and identifying the associated risk factors among these patients. In this case-control study, a total of 176 patients were enrolled. The occurrence of VAL was observed in 9.66% (17 individuals). Patients with VAL showed significantly elevated levels of the modified Borg dyspnea score, daytime cough score, night-time cough score, chest computed tomography severity score, and Treg ratio compared to those without VAL. Additionally, patients with VAL had a lower 6MWD value compared to those without it. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the modified Borg dyspnea score independently increased the risk of Omicron infection with VAL, with an odds ratio of 3.375, and a 95% confidence interval ranging from 1.537 to 7.408, with a P-value of .002. There is a possibility of experiencing VAL in certain patients recovering from the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection. The modified Borg dyspnea score has been identified as a standalone risk factor for the occurrence of VAL in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection.

A Network Meta-analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Targeted Drug Combinations in the Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Objective: This network meta-analysis aims to compare the efficacy and safety of different targeted drug combination treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Methods: Searches were conducted in Cochrane, PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang Database, and VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journal Data to identify both published and unpublished randomized controlled trials from inception until January 1, 2022. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. A network meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16.0 software. The efficacy and safety of different targeted drugs combined treatment for PAH were evaluated based on forest plot, funnel plot, and surface under the cumulative ranking. Results: A total of 29 randomized controlled trails with 4,448 patients treated with 10 different types of targeted drug combinations were included in this study. The results of the surface under the cumulative ranking showed that the combination regimen was the best clinical option to improve symptoms and delay progression in patients with pulmonary artery hypertension compared with monotherapy. Sildenafil in combination with ambrisentan significantly improved the 6-minute walk distance and reduced N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels. Bosentan in combination with sildenafil significantly reduced mean pulmonary artery pressure, whereas bosentan in combination with epoprostenol was more effective than other combinations in reducing pulmonary vascular resistance. Bosentan in combination with tadalafil significantly improved the Borg dyspnea score, and bosentan in combination with iloprost was the best combination for improving World Health Organization functional class/New York Heart Association functional class. In terms of safety, there was no significant reduction in the incidence of adverse events, hospitalizations, or all-cause mortality for combination therapy compared with monotherapy. Bosentan combined with sildenafil significantly reduced the risk of serious adverse events, but the risk of discontinuation due to an adverse event was higher than monotherapy. Sildenafil combined with epoprostenol reduced the risk of clinical worsening in patients with PAH. Conclusion: Compared with monotherapy, targeted drug combinations for PAH significantly improves exercise tolerance, pulmonary hemodynamic parameters, and reduces the risk of serious adverse events and clinical worsening in patients. Bosentan in combination with sildenafil and bosentan in combination with iloprost are combinations of targeted agents with significant efficacy and better safety profile than monotherapy for the treatment of PAH. Sildenafil in combination with epoprostenol has a low risk of clinical worsening in PAH.

Normative reference values, determinants and regression equations for the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) in healthy Asian population aged 21 to 80 years.

The validated Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT) is widely used for evaluating maximal exercise capacity, with the distance-walked (IWSD) as the primary outcome. However, there are no normative reference values (NRV) and reference equations to predict ISWD for the Singaporean population. This study aims to establish the NRV and reference equations for ISWD in healthy Singaporeans aged 21 to 80 and investigate the determining variables during ISWT. This cross-sectional study recruited community-dwelling healthy subjects aged 21-80 from the community via convenience sampling. Each subject completed two trials of the ISWT according to the standard protocol. Variables measured during the trials included ISWD, pre-and post-test heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation, blood pressure (BP), modified Borg's dyspnoea score and Borg's rate of perceived exertion (RPE). 199 healthy Singaporean (females = 114, males = 85) participated in the study. The overall median ISWD was 660.0 metres (m) [interquartile range (IQR):440.0-850.0]. The age-stratified mean ISWD ranged from 430.0 m (IQR:350.0-450.0) (aged 60-80) to 480.0 m (IQR:438.0-650.0) (aged 40-59) to 780.0 m (IQR:670.0-960.0) (aged 21-39). Gender, age, weight, height and HR change (highest post-test HR minus pre-test HR) were the most significant variables (p < 0.001). IWSD (m) = 651.4(Height, m) +89.7(Gender, male = 1; female = 0) -6.31(Age, years) -3.61(Weight, kilograms) +2.54(HR change, beats per minute); R2 = 0.741. Previously published ISWT reference equations cannot accurately predict the ISWD in the Singaporean population. This study investigated the ISWD NRV and established reference equations for healthy Singaporeans aged 21-80. The information would be beneficial in setting performance benchmarks to guide physical assessment, intervention and rehabilitation.

Systemic Determinants of Exercise Intolerance in Patients With Fibrotic Interstitial Lung Disease and Severely Impaired DLCO.

The precise mechanisms driving poor exercise tolerance in patients with fibrotic interstitial lung diseases (fibrotic ILDs) showing a severe impairment in single-breath lung diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO < 40% predicted) are not fully understood. Rather than only reflecting impaired O2 transfer, a severely impaired DLCO may signal deranged integrative physiologic adjustments to exercise that jointly increase the burden of exertional symptoms in fibrotic ILD. Sixty-seven subjects (46 with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, 24 showing DLCO < 40%) and 22 controls underwent pulmonary function tests and an incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test with serial measurements of operating lung volumes and 0-10 Borg dyspnea and leg discomfort scores. Subjects from the DLCO < 40% group showed lower spirometric values, more severe restriction, and lower alveolar volume and transfer coefficient compared to controls and participants with less impaired DLCO (P < .05). Peak work rate was ∼45% (vs controls) and ∼20% (vs DLCO > 40%) lower in the former group, being associated with lower (and flatter) O2 pulse, an earlier lactate (anaerobic) threshold, heightened submaximal ventilation, and lower SpO2 . Moreover, critically high inspiratory constrains were reached at lower exercise intensities in the DLCO < 40% group (P < .05). In association with the greatest leg discomfort scores, they reported the highest dyspnea scores at a given work rate. Between-group differences lessened or disappeared when dyspnea intensity was related to indexes of increased demand-capacity imbalance, that is, decreasing submaximal, dynamic ventilatory reserve, and inspiratory reserve volume/total lung capacity (P > .05). A severely reduced DLCO in fibrotic ILD signals multiple interconnected derangements (cardiovascular impairment, an early shift to anaerobic metabolism, excess ventilation, inspiratory constraints, and hypoxemia) that ultimately lead to limiting respiratory (dyspnea) and peripheral (leg discomfort) symptoms. DLCO < 40%, therefore, might help in clinical decision-making to indicate the patient with fibrotic ILD who might derive particular benefit from pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions aimed at lessening these systemic abnormalities.

Parenteral treprostinil induction for rapid attainment of therapeutic doses of oral treprostinil

RationaleOral treprostinil slows disease progression and improves exercise capacity in pulmonary arterial hypertension; however, titration can be prolonged. Published data suggests prostacyclin-naïve patients achieve total daily oral treprostinil doses of about 6 mg by Week 16, while those on prior parenteral treprostinil reach higher doses at the same timepoint. ObjectivesEXPEDITE (NCT03497689), a single-arm, multicenter study, assessed the efficacy of rapid parenteral treprostinil induction to quickly reach higher doses of oral treprostinil for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. MethodsParenteral treprostinil was titrated for 2–8 weeks, followed by cross-titration of oral treprostinil. The primary endpoint was percentage of patients reaching ≥12 mg daily of oral treprostinil at Week 16. Secondary endpoints included clinical changes from baseline to Week 16. ResultsTwenty-nine prostacyclin-naïve patients were included in efficacy analyses. At Week 16, the mean daily oral treprostinil dose was 16.4 mg; 79% of patients met the primary endpoint. From baseline to Week 16, median REVEAL Lite 2 score improved (decreased) from 6 to 3.5 (p = 0.0006). Statistically significant improvements were also seen in World Health Organization Functional Class, N-terminal-pro brain natriuretic peptide levels, 6-minute walk distance, right atrial area, Borg Dyspnea Score, and emPHasis-10 score. Favorable trends were seen in risk stratification, echocardiography parameters, disease symptoms, and treatment satisfaction. ConclusionShort-course parenteral treprostinil induction resulted in oral treprostinil doses over twice those reported in de novo initiations and may be a useful approach to quickly achieve the therapeutic benefits of oral treprostinil.

Automated O2 Titration Alone or With High-Flow Nasal Cannula During Walking Exercise in Chronic Lung Diseases.

Exercise-induced O2 desaturation contributes to dyspnea and exercise intolerance in various respiratory diseases. This study assessed whether automated O2 titration was superior to fixed-flow O2 to improve exertional dyspnea and walking exercise endurance. We also aimed at evaluating possible additive effects of high-flow nasal cannula coupled with automated O2 titration on these outcomes. Subjects with chronic respiratory diseases and exercise-induced desaturation performed a 3-min constant-speed shuttle test (CSST) and an endurance shuttle walking test (ESWT) with either (1) fixed-flow O2, (2) automated O2 titration targeting an SpO2 of 94% (± 2%), and (3) automated O2 titration + high-flow nasal cannula according to a randomized sequence. The main outcome was Borg dyspnea score at the end of the 3-min CSST. Secondary outcomes included endurance time and dyspnea during ESWT and oxygenation status during exercise. Ten subjects with COPD, 10 with interstitial lung disease, 5 with pulmonary hypertension, and 3 with cystic fibrosis completed the study. Compared to fixed-flow O2, automated O2 titration did not reduce dyspnea at the end of the 3-min CSST. Endurance time during the ESWT was prolonged with automated O2 titration (mean difference 298 [95% CI 205-391] s, P < .001), and dyspnea at isotime was reduced. No further improvement was noted when high-flow nasal cannula was added to automated O2 titration. Compared to fixed-flow O2, O2 flows were higher with automated O2 titration, resulting in better oxygenation. Automated O2 titration was superior to fixed-flow O2 to alleviate dyspnea and improve exercise endurance during the ESWT in subjects with a variety of chronic respiratory diseases. Adding high-flow nasal cannula to automated O2 titration provided no further benefits.

Resting pulmonary function and artery pressure and cardiopulmonary exercise testing in chronic heart failure patients in Taiwan − a prospective observational cross-sectional study comparing healthy subjects and interstitial lung disease patients

Background Restrictive ventilatory defects and elevated pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) are common in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and those with interstitial lung disease (ILD). However, as oxyhemoglobin desaturation seldom occurs in stable CHF patients at peak exercise, we hypothesized that the pathophysiology may be different between them. This study aimed to investigate: (1) PAP and lung function at rest, (2) pulmonary gas exchange (PGX) and breathing patterns at peak exercise, (3) mechanisms of dyspnea at peak exercise in patients with CHF compared to healthy subjects and ILD patients. Methods We consecutively enrolled 83 participants (27 with CHF, 23 with ILD, and 33 healthy controls). The CHF and ILD groups had similar functional status. Lung function and cardiopulmonary exercise tests with Borg Dyspnea Score were performed. PAP was estimated using echocardiography. Resting lung function, PAP and peak exercise data in the CHF group were compared to the healthy and ILD groups. Correlation analysis was performed to elucidate the mechanisms of dyspnea in the CHF and ILD groups. Results Compared to the healthy group, the CHF group had normal lung function, PAP at rest, and normal dyspnea score and PGX at peak exercise, whereas the ILD group had abnormal values compared to the CHF group. Dyspnea score was positively correlated with pressure gradient, lung expansion capabilities, and expiratory tidal flow in the CHF group (all p < 0.05), but inversely correlated with inspiratory time-related variables in the ILD group (all p < 0.05). Conclusion Normal lung function and PAP at rest, and dyspnea scores and PGX at peak exercise indicated that pulmonary hypertension and fibrosis were insignificant in the patients with CHF. The factors affecting dyspnea at peak exercise were different between the CHF and ILD groups. As the sample size in this study was small, large-scale studies are warranted to confirm our findings.

Radiological findings based comparison of functional status in patients who have post-covid lung injury or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

BackgroundFollowing COVID-19 infection, some patients acquired lung injury and fibrosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by lung fibrosis. Both post-COVID lung injury and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis cause loss of respiratory function and involvement of the lung parenchyma. We aimed to compare respiratory related functional characteristics and radiological involvement between post-COVID lung injury and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.MethodsA single center, cross-sectional study was applied. Patients with post-COVID lung injury and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis included in the study. All patients underwent the 6-minute walk test, as well as the Borg and MRC scales. Radiological images were evaluated and scored for lung parenchymal involvement. The impact of post-COVID lung injury and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on respiratory functions of were compared. The relationship of functional status and radiological involvement, as well as the effect of potential confounding factors were investigated.ResultsA total of 71 patients were included in the study. Forty-eight (67.6%) of the patients were male and the mean age was 65.4 ± 10.3 years. Patients with post-COVID lung injury had greater 6-minute walk test distance and duration, as well as higher oxygen saturations. The MRC and Borg dyspnea scores were comparable. At radiologic evaluation, ground glass opacity scores were higher in patients with post-COVID lung injury, whereas pulmonary fibrosis scores were higher in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, the total severity scores were similar. While pulmonary fibrosis score was found to have a negative correlation with 6-minute walk test distance, test duration, and pre- and post-test oxygen saturation levels, there was a positive correlation with oxygen saturation recovery time and MRC score. There was no relationship between ground glass opacity and the functional parameters.ConclusionsDespite having equal degrees of radiological involvement and dyspnea symptom severity, PCLI patients exhibited higher levels of functional status. This might be due to different pathophysiological mechanisms and radiological involvement patterns of both diseases.

One-minute sit-to-stand test in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease: A single-center prospective study

BackgroundPatients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD) have reduced exercise capacity. Recently, the 1-minute sit-to-stand test (1MSTST), which measures the number of repetitions from sitting to standing position in 1 minute, has been proposed as an alternative test to the 6-minute walking test (6MWT). The aim of our study was to assess the safety and results of the 1MSTST in comparison to the 6MWT in patients with PAH-CHD. MethodsConsecutive adult patients with PAH-CHD underwent the 6MWT and the 1MSTST on the same day. The 6-minute walking distance in meters and the number of repetitions on the 1MSTST were measured. Heart rate, peripheral oxygen saturations, Borg dyspnea score, and lower limb fatigue were recorded before and immediately after testing. Correlations between both tests and clinical, laboratory, and imaging parameters were statistically analyzed. ResultsThe study included 40 patients (50% female, mean age 43 ± 15 years), of whom 29 (72%) had Eisenmenger syndrome and 14 (35%) had Down syndrome. The number of 1MSTST repetitions correlated significantly with 6MWT distance (r = 0.807, p = 0.000). There were no adverse events, and the 1MSTST results correlated with the WHO functional class. Heart rate increase and oxygen desaturation after both tests correlated significantly, but less desaturation was observed after 1MSTST. ConclusionsOur study showed that the 1MSTST is a safe and easily applicable test in adult patients with PAH-CHD, including patients with Down syndrome. The results of the 1MSTST correlate significantly with the 6MWT, providing an alternative tool for exercise capacity assessment in patients with PAH-CHD.

Physiological underpinnings of exertional dyspnoea in mild fibrosing interstitial lung disease

The functional disturbances driving “out-of-proportion” dyspnoea in patients with fibrosing interstitial lung disease (f-ILD) showing only mild restrictive abnormalities remain poorly understood. Eighteen patients (10 with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) showing preserved spirometry and mildly reduced total lung capacity (≥70% predicted) and 18 controls underwent an incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test with measurements of operating lung volumes and Borg dyspnoea scores. Patients’ lower exercise tolerance was associated with higher ventilation (V̇E)/carbon dioxide (V̇CO2) compared with controls (V̇E/V̇CO2 nadir=35 ± 3 versus 29 ± 2; p < 0.001). Patients showed higher tidal volume/inspiratory capacity and lower inspiratory reserve volume at a given exercise intensity, reporting higher dyspnoea scores as a function of both work rate and V̇E. Steeper dyspnoea-work rate slopes were associated with lower lung diffusing capacity, higher V̇E/V̇CO2, and lower peak O2 uptake (p < 0.05). Heightened ventilatory demands in the setting of progressively lower capacity for tidal volume expansion on exertion largely explain higher-than-expected dyspnoea in f-ILD patients with largely preserved dynamic and “static” lung volumes at rest.

Assessment of diaphragmatic role in dyspneic patients with pleural effusion

BackgroundDyspnea that is caused by pleural effusion and affects patients’ quality of life may not be resolved after lung expansion following pleural tapping. This study aims to investigate the role that changes in the diaphragmatic shape and movement play in the development of dyspnea in those patients.MethodsThirty patients with pleural effusions and dyspnea were evaluated before and at 24 h after therapeutic thoracentesis. The primary outcomes are to investigate changes in diaphragmatic shape and movement before and after thoracentesis by chest ultrasound to evaluate factors causing effusion-related dyspnoea, while the secondary outcomes are firstly to investigate the effect of pleural effusion on the cardiorespiratory, functional, and diaphragmatic variables in causing dyspnea and secondly to detect the percentages and demographics of patients who experience post-drainage dyspnea improvement.ResultsThirty patients with age >18 years old who had moderate to massive pleural effusion (either of benign or malignant etiology), with breathlessness were recruited from the Chest Department, Ultrasonography Unit, Ain-Shams University Hospitals. Almost all (96.7%) of the studied patients experienced shortness of breath with a mean modified Borg Score of 5.13 ± 1.78, tapping of varying amounts of pleural fluid ranging from 1000 to 2000 ml.There is a highly significant improvement in the diaphragmatic excursion, with non-significant improvement in diaphragmatic shape, although nonsignificant correlation between diaphragmatic excursion and functional parameters (M. Borg score, spirometry, and 6MWD: 6-min walk distance), but a significant negative correlation between diaphragmatic excursion and amount of drained effusion (P value 0.045 and 95% CI for OR 1.041–36.779). 63.3% of patients experienced dyspnea improvement after thoracocentesis, and they showed highly significant improvements in M. Borg dyspnea score, spirometry, pulse rate, respiratory rate, 6MWD, and blood oxygen saturation.ConclusionIn this study, we conclude that the improvement of the diaphragmatic excursion was negatively correlated with the amount of drained effusion, but no significant correlation was detected with the functional parameters and effusion-related indices that may be caused by the small sample size of the study.

Utility of Walk Tests in the Progression of Mild COVID-19 Infection at a Tertiary Hospital in North India.

There have been 214 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 worldwide, with a total death tally of 4.4 million. The current study aims to determine the predictive value of various scores in the assessment of progression of mild COVID-19 infection at a tertiary care hospital in North India. The study population consisted of adults (age more than 18 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 by RT-PCR on nasopharyngeal specimens. Patients with only mild illness were enrolled. After the patients were admitted to the isolation ward, the presenting history, comorbidity status, vital signs and laboratory parameters were recorded. The 3 and 6 minutes walk test was performed daily from admission till discharge or progression of the severity of COVID- 19, and it was used to calculate Borg Dyspnoea Score (BDS) and National Early Warning Score (NEWS2) scores. Our study consisted of 50 patients with 34 (68%) males, and the mean (SD) age of the patient population was 28.1 (6.4) years. The most common symptoms were fever, sore throat, and cough. All laboratory parameters were within normal ranges for all the patients. 96% recovered without progression, while only 4% of them progressed to moderate illness. Results of the 3 and 6 minutes walk tests, BDS and NEWS2 scores showed improvement over the course of the hospital stay. Although the walk tests and the scores improved over time, they failed to predict the disease progression.

Preoperative incremental shuttle walk test for morbidity and mortality prediction in elective major colorectal surgery.

Background and Aims:The incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) is a simple reproducible and non-invasive test for assessing cardiopulmonary function. The maximum oxygen consumption is less than 10 ml/kg/min for ISWT distance of less than 250 m. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ISWT in predicting morbidity and mortality in elective colorectal oncosurgery and to find the correlation of ISWT with the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), Borg dyspnoea score, and peak oxygen uptake (VO2 max).Methods:This prospective study involved 46 patients aged more than 60 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II undergoing elective colorectal surgery under general anaesthesia with an epidural block. ISWT was conducted preoperatively and patients were monitored for 30 days postoperatively. For a comparative analysis, patients were divided into two groups: group 1– who could walk 250 m and group 2 – could not walk 250m. Categorical data were evaluated using the Chi-square test, while continuous data were evaluated using the Student’s t-test. The strength of correlation was determined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.Results:Postoperative complications (P = 0.001) and lengthy stay in hospital and intensive care unit (P = 0.001) were experienced by all patients who were unable to complete the ISWT distance of 250 m. ISWT distance of 250 m corresponds to a DASI score of 10.5, which is equivalent to a calculated VO2 max of 14.1ml/kg/min.Conclusion:The ISWT with a cutoff distance of 250 m is a reliable predictor of postoperative morbidity in patients undergoing colorectal oncosurgery.

Quality of Life in Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension.

We explored positive and negative affect, quality of life (QOL), and associated factors in patients with pulmonary hypertension. We conducted this cross-sectional study using convenience sampling at a medical center in Taiwan. We used the Social Support Scale, positive and negative affect scale, and Short Form 36-item Health Survey to collect data. In these patients, greater social support was associated with less negative affect and better QOL (mental components). Lower Borg dyspnea scores or greater distances in the six-minute walk test were associated with more positive affect, less negative affect, and better QOL (both physical and mental components). Patients with less negative affect and more positive affect had better QOL (mental components). Therefore, nursing staff should routinely monitor the emotional status and QOL of patients with pulmonary hypertension, especially those with less social support and poorer cardiopulmonary function. Strengthening these aspects may improve patients' emotional status and QOL.

Abstract 57: Impact Of Body Mass Index In Functional Capacity And Hemodynamics In Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Background: Prior studies demonstrate a higher prevalence of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and more severe hemodynamics in patients with higher body mass index (BMI). However, this association was only described in post-capillary PH. To better understand the relationship between pre-capillary PH and BMI, we compared various PH parameters stratified by BMI class. Methods: Data from right heart catheterization (RHC), 6-minute walk (6MW), and functional class (FC) were collected from the University of Michigan Pulmonary Hypertension Patient Registry from 2016-2020 at baseline and 3-month follow-up. Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients were grouped into 4 BMI weight classes: under/normal weight (BMI &lt; 25), overweight (25 &lt; BMI &lt; 30), obesity class 1 (30 &lt; BMI &lt; 35), obesity class 2/3 (BMI &gt; 35). Results: Among 175 PAH patients, obese patients exhibited higher right atrial and pulmonary capillary wedge pressures. There were no major differences in mean pulmonary artery (PA) pressures, pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), cardiac index Fick, 6MW distance walked, or peak Borg Dyspnea score among BMI groups. Despite having similar mean PA pressure and PVR (major determinants of functional capacity in PAH), patients in higher weight classes had higher dyspnea symptom burden by WHO FC. Specifically, a greater prevalence of normal/overweight patients were in FC 1 while more obese patients were in FC 3. Conclusions: Overall, in patients with PAH, higher BMI classes presented with worse FC for dyspnea, higher RA and PCW pressures, with similar PA pressures and 6MW results. Our data suggests that BMI may be an important factor that influences PAH symptoms. The impact of BMI in PAH outcomes is yet to be determined. It is possible that patients with higher BMI may exhibit more frequent comorbid conditions contributing to multifactorial symptoms of dyspnea; further study is warranted.