Exacerbation Of Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Research Articles

Effect of high-flow nasal cannula at different flow rates on diaphragmatic function in subjects recovering from an acute exacerbation of COPD: a physiological prospective pilot study

BackgroundNoninvasive ventilation (NIV) is widely employed as the initial treatment for patients with chronic acute exacerbation of obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). Nevertheless, high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) has been increasingly utilized and investigated to mitigate the issues associated with NIV. Flow rate may play a significant role in diaphragmatic function among subjects recovering from AECOPD. Based on these observations, we conducted a physiological study to assess the impact of HFNC therapy on diaphragmatic function, as measured by US, respiratory rate (RR), gas exchange, and patient comfort at various flow rates.MethodsA prospective physiological pilot study enrolled subjects with a diagnosis of AECOPD who required NIV for more than 24 h. After stabilization, these subjects underwent a 30-min trial using NIV and HFNC at different sequential flow rates (30–60 L/min). At the end of each trial, diaphragmatic displacement (DD, cm) and diaphragmatic thickness fraction (DTF, %) were measured using ultrasound. Additionally, other physiological variables, such as RR, gas exchange, and patient comfort, were recorded.ResultsA total of 20 patients were included in the study. DD was no different among trials (p = 0.753). DTF (%) was significantly lower with HFNC-30 L/min compared to HFNC-50 and 60 L/min (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). No significant differences were found in arterial pH and PaCO2 at discontinuation of NIV and at the end of HFNC trials (p > 0.050). During HFNC trials, RR remained unchanged without statistically significant differences (p = 0.611). However, we observed that HFNC improved comfort compared to NIV (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Interestingly, HFNC at 30 and 40 L/min showed greater comfort during trials.ConclusionsIn subjects recovering from AECOPD and receiving HFNC, flows above 40 L/min may not offer additional benefits in terms of comfort and decreased respiratory effort. HFNC could be a suitable alternative to COT during breaks off NIV.

New clinical guidelines for COPD - a paradigm shift: A review

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is now one of the most common noncommunicable diseases and the main causes of morbidity, disability and mortality in the world. In recent years, new approaches to epidemiology, diagnosis, classification (categorization), evaluation of phenotypes, as well as characterization and assessment of the severity of сhronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations have emerged. Modern approaches to starting and subsequent drug therapy have changed significantly. This is largely due to the results of recently conducted major clinical trials, demonstrated high efficacy of triple fixed combinations, including inhaled glucocorticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists and long-acting anticholinergic drugs. The use of non-medication methods (smoking cessation, physical activity and respiratory rehabilitation) and modern approaches to the treatment of respiratory failure and antibiotic therapy remain important. In terms of their significance, all these updates have a significant impact on real clinical practice and can be considered as a novel paradigm of the approaches to the diagnosis and management of this disease.

Postoperative oxygenation assessed by SpO2/FiO2 ratio and respiratory complications after reversal of neuromuscular block with Sugammadex or neostigmine: A retrospective cohort study

Study objectiveResidual neuromuscular block may lead to postoperative muscle weakness, inadequate oxygenation, and other pulmonary complications. Sugammadex may provide more rapid and effective restoration of neuromuscular function than neostigmine. We therefore tested the primary hypothesis that noncardiac surgical patients given sugammadex oxygenate better during initial recovery than those given neostigmine. Secondarily, we tested the hypothesis that patients given sugammadex have fewer pulmonary complications during hospitalization. DesignRetrospective cohort analysis. SettingPostoperative recovery area of a tertiary care hospital. PatientsAdults who had non-cardiothoracic surgery and were given either neostigmine or sugammadex. InterventionsNone. MeasurementsThe primary outcome was the lowest SpO2/FiO2 ratio in the post-anesthesia care unit. The secondary outcome was a composite of pulmonary complications. Main resultsAmong 71,457 cases, 10,708 (15%) were given sugammadex and 60,749 (85%) received neostigmine. After propensity weighting, the mean minimum SpO2/FiO2 ratio was 301 ± 77 (SD) in patients given sugammadex and 303 ± 71 in those given neostigmine, yielding an estimated difference in means of −3.5 (95% confidence interval: −5.3, −1.7; P = 0.0002). 4.4% of patients given sugammadex and 3.6% of patients given neostigmine had postoperative pulmonary complications (P = 0.0005, number-needed-to-be-exposed =136; 95% CI: 83, 330), with the main contributing components being new bronchospasm or exacerbation of obstructive pulmonary disease. ConclusionsPostoperative minimum SpO2/FiO2 ratio during PACU admission was similar after reversal of neuromuscular block by sugammadex and neostigmine. Reversal with sugammadex was associated with more pulmonary complications, but most were minor and of little consequence.

Dose-Limiting Pulmonary Toxicity in a Phase 1/2 Study of Radiation and Chemotherapy with Ipilimumab Followed by Nivolumab for Patients With Stage 3 Unresectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

We hypothesized that concurrent ipilimumab with chemoradiationtherapy (chemoRT) followed by maintenance nivolumab would be safe for patients with unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to assess the safety (phase 1) and the 12-month progression-free survival (PFS) (phase 2) in a multi-institution prospective trial. Eligible patients had unresectable stage III NSCLC. The treatment included platinum doublet chemotherapy with concurrent thoracic radiation therapy to 60 Gy in 30 fractions and ipilimumab (1 mg/kg) delivered during weeks 1 and 4. After chemoRT, maintenance nivolumab (480 mg) was given every 4 weeks for up to 12 cycles. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 5.0. Survival analyses were performed with Kaplan Meier (KM) methods and log-rank tests. The trial was discontinued early after enrolling 19 patients without proceeding to the phase 2 component because of unacceptable toxicity. Sixteen patients (84%) had grade ≥3 (G3+) possible treatment-related toxicity, most commonly pulmonary AEs (n=8, 42%). Fourteen patients (74%) discontinued study therapy early because of AEs (n=12, 63%) or patient choice (n=2, 11%). Eleven patients (58%) experienced G2+ pulmonary toxicity with median time to onset 4.1 months (95% CI 2.6-not reached [NR]), and 12-month freedom from G2+ pulmonary toxicity 37% (95% CI, 16-59). Five patients had G5 AEs, including 3 with G5 pulmonary AEs (1 respiratory failure with pneumonitis and pulmonary embolism, 1 pneumonia/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation, 1 pulmonary fibrosis). Despite toxicities, the median PFS was 19.2 months (95% CI 6.1-NR) and the median overall survival was NR (95% CI 6.1-NR) with median follow-up of 30.1 months by the reverse KM method. Concurrent ipilimumab with chemoRT for unresectable stage III NSCLC is associated with pulmonary toxicity that may limit opportunities for improved outcomes. Future studies aiming to incorporate ipilimumab or other anti-CTLA4 therapies into management of unresectable stage III NSCLC should consider careful measures to minimize toxicity risk.

Exacerbation of obstructive pulmonary diseases by SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients treated in the Pulmonology Clinic of Târgu Mures

Literature data show an increased severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with cardiovascular, renal comorbidities, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, obesity, diabetes, tumors and immunosuppression. This retrospective study includes 90 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with COPD or asthma exacerbations from 303 patients hospitalized during a 7-month period (29.7%). The clinical aspect of COPD/asthma exacerbations overlapped to the one by SARS-CoV-2 infection, therefore, we compared our group with 90 patients with SARS-CoV-2 without obstructive disease. We excluded from both groups the patients with known severe cardiac impairment, diabetes, or tumors in order to not having interference with other unfavorable prognostic factors. We assessed the cases severity on clinical basis, pulzoximetry, CT/chest x-ray, and inflammatory markers. 72.2% of our group (48/52 with COPD and 17/38 with asthma) had moderate/severe pneumonia (bilateral interstitial-alveolar infiltrates, increased inflammatory markers, respiratory dysfunction) compared with 56.6% from the nonobstructive group. 14 patients required intensive therapy (including mechanical ventilation). We recorded 4 deaths in COPD group, 1 in asthma group, compared to 2 in non-obstructive patients (fatality 7.6% in COPD compared to 2.2% in nonobstructive group). Treatment included maximized inhaled bronchodilators ± corticosteroids, oxygen, antivirals, anticoagulants, corticosteroids, symptomatic. All patients were referred for clinical-functional and CT scan reassessment 2 months after discharge. The association of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with COPD or asthma was common, leading to exacerbation with significant severity. Fatality increased in COPD. Outpatient follow-up aims to restage adjust the treatment and monitor post-COVID-19 possible sequels. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(2): 43-50.

Etiology Analysis and Antimicrobial Selection in Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Etiology Analysis and Antimicrobial Selection in Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Effect of spontaneous breathing trial on extubation in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease under mechanical ventilation

ObjectiveTo evaluate how spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) affects successful extubation and prognosis in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients under mechanical ventilation.MethodsAECOPD patients under invasive mechanical ventilation were recruited into the study and divided into the SBT and non-SBT groups. SBT patients received SBT for 60 min before extubation, while non-SBT patients that met weaning criteria were immediately extubated without SBT.ResultsA total of 64 patients were enrolled in analysis, including 32 in SBT group and 32 in non-SBT group. Patients in the two groups had similar baseline demographics and clinical characteristics (all parameters: p = > 0.05). Four (12.5%) patients in the SBT group and 5 (15.6%) in the non-SBT group were reintubated in 48 h of extubation (p = 0.821). During the 28-day follow-up after extubation, 3 patients died, 1 (3.1%) in the SBT group and 2 (6.3%) in the non-SBT group (p = 0.554).ConclusionOur findings indicate that SBT did not affect extubation success, in-hospital mortality, and 28-day survival in AECOPD patients under mechanical ventilation.

Exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: what does an EMS physician need to know about this

Exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: what does an EMS physician need to know about this

Point of care ultrasound as initial diagnostic tool in acute dyspnea patients in the emergency department of a tertiary care center: diagnostic accuracy study

BackgroundDyspnea is one of the common symptoms patients present to the emergency department (ED). The broad spectrum of differentials often requires laboratory and radiological testing in addition to clinical evaluation, causing unnecessary delay. Point of care ultrasound (PoCUS) has shown promising results in accurately diagnosing patients with dyspnea, thus, becoming a popular tool in ED while saving time and maintaining safety standards. Our study aimed to determine the utilization of point of care ultrasound in patients with acute dyspnea as an initial diagnostic tool in our settings.MethodologyThe study was conducted at the emergency department of a tertiary healthcare center in Northern India. Adult patients presenting with acute dyspnea were prospectively enrolled. They were clinically evaluated and necessarily investigated, and a provisional diagnosis was made. Another EP, trained in PoCUS, performed the scan, blinded to the laboratory investigations (not the clinical parameters), and made a PoCUS diagnosis. Our gold standard was the final composite diagnosis made by two Emergency Medicine consultants (who had access to all investigations). Accuracy and concordance of the ultrasound diagnosis to the final composite diagnosis were calculated. The time to formulate a PoCUS diagnosis and final composite diagnosis was compared.ResultsTwo hundred thirty-seven patients were enrolled. The PoCUS and final composite diagnosis showed good concordance (κ = 0.668). PoCUS showed a high sensitivity for acute pulmonary edema, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, pneumonia, pericardial effusion, and low sensitivity for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)/acute lung injury (ALI). High overall specificity was seen. A high positive predictive value for all except left ventricular dysfunction, pericardial effusion, non-cardiopulmonary causes of dyspnea, and a low negative predictive value was seen for pneumonia. The median time to make a PoCUS diagnosis was 16 (5–264) min compared to the 170 (8–1346) min taken for the final composite diagnosis. Thus, time was significantly lower for PoCUS diagnosis (p value <0.001).ConclusionBy combining the overall accuracy of PoCUS, the concordance with the final composite diagnosis, and the statistically significant reduction in time taken to formulate the diagnosis, PoCUS shows immense promise as an initial diagnostic tool that may expedite the decision-making in ED for patients’ prompt management and disposition with reliable accuracy.

Immunophenotype in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disease, and the immune inflammatory response is thought to play an important role in pathogenesis. However, the immunophenotype of patients with COPD is unknown. Herein, we evaluated the immunophenotype of patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD).MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in West China Hospital from September 2018 to October 2019. The proportion of CD4 + T lymphocyte subtypes (Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg) and levels of serum cytokines in the peripheral blood of patients with AECOPD, stable COPD (SCOPD), healthy smokers (HSs)and healthy controls (HCs) were evaluated.ResultsA total of 15 HCs, 19 HSs, 42 patients with SCOPD, and 55 patients with AECOPD were included. Compared to patients with SCOPD, Th1 cells, Th17 cells, Treg cell ratio, Th1/Th2 cell ratio, and the levels of C-reactive protein, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-10 were significantly increased in patients with AECOPD (P < 0.001), while the proportion of Th2 cells was significantly reduced (P < 0.01). The proportion of Th17 cells was positively correlated with COPD Assessment Test score (r = 0.266, P = 0.009), modified Medical Research Council dyspnea score (r = 0.858, P < 0.0001), and Th1 cell ratio (r = 0.403, P < 0.0001) and negatively correlated with forced vital capacity (r = − 0.367, P = 0.009) and proportion of Th2 cells (r = − 0.655, P < 0.0001).ConclusionsThe immunophenotype of patients with AECOPD shows abnormal activation of Th1, Th17, and Treg cells. There is a correlation between the proportion of Th17 cells and the severity of COPD; therefore, this may represent a novel index for the evaluation of COPD severity.Trial registration: China Clinical Trials Registry, ChiCTR1800018452, registered 19 September 2018, https://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx.

Effect of high-level fine particulate matter and its interaction with meteorological factors on AECOPD in Shijiazhuang, China

Epidemiological evidence of the effect of high-level air pollution and its interaction with meteorological factors on the risk of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is limited. Daily data on AECOPD cases, air pollutants and meteorological factors were collected from 2015 to 2018 in Shijiazhuang. A distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was used to explore the lag and cumulative effect of PM2.5 on the risk of AECOPD. The effect of the interaction between PM2.5 and meteorological factors on AECOPD was estimated by a generalized additive model (GAM) and a stratification model. A total of 4766 patients with AECOPD were enrolled. After controlling for confounders, each 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 led to a 5.8% increase in the risk of AECOPD on day lag 0. The cumulative effect of PM2.5 on AECOPD risk showed an increasing trend after 3 days. Similar results were observed in both smoking and non-smoking patients. There was an interaction between PM2.5 and meteorological factors, and the risk of AECOPD was higher in cold and lower humidity conditions than in other conditions. High-level PM2.5 exposure is positively associated with the risk of AECOPD onset, and the effect of PM2.5 can be modified by the temperature and relative humidity. Public health guidelines should pay close attention to AECOPD risk under the condition of high-level PM2.5 with low temperature or low humidity.

Physiological effects of high-intensity versus low-intensity noninvasive positive pressure ventilation in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomised controlled trial

BackgroundHigh-intensity noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) is a novel ventilatory approach to maximally decreasing elevated arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) toward normocapnia with stepwise up-titration of pressure support. We tested whether high-intensity NPPV is more effective than low-intensity NPPV at decreasing PaCO2, reducing inspiratory effort, alleviating dyspnoea, improving consciousness, and improving NPPV tolerance in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD).MethodsIn this physiological, randomised controlled trial, we assigned 24 AECOPD patients to undergo either high-intensity NPPV (n = 12) or low-intensity NPPV (n = 12). The primary outcome was PaCO2 24 h after randomisation. Secondary outcomes included gas exchange other than PaCO2 24 h after randomisation, inspiratory effort, dyspnoea, consciousness, NPPV tolerance, patient–ventilator asynchrony, cardiac function, ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), and NPPV-related adverse events.ResultsInspiratory positive airway pressure 24 h after randomisation was significantly higher (28.0 [26.0–28.0] vs. 15.5 [15.0–17.5] cmH2O; p = 0.000) and NPPV duration within the first 24 h was significantly longer (21.8 ± 2.1 vs. 15.3 ± 4.7 h; p = 0.001) in the high-intensity NPPV group. PaCO2 24 h after randomisation decreased to 54.0 ± 11.6 mmHg in the high-intensity NPPV group but only decreased to 67.4 ± 10.6 mmHg in the low-intensity NPPV group (p = 0.008). Inspiratory oesophageal pressure swing, oesophageal pressure–time product (PTPes)/breath, PTPes/min, and PTPes/L were significantly lower in the high-intensity group. Accessory muscle use and dyspnoea score 24 h after randomisation were also significantly lower in that group. No significant between-groups differences were observed in consciousness, NPPV tolerance, patient–ventilator asynchrony, cardiac function, VILI, or NPPV-related adverse events.ConclusionsHigh-intensity NPPV is more effective than low-intensity NPPV at decreasing elevated PaCO2, reducing inspiratory effort, and alleviating dyspnoea in AECOPD patients.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04044625; registered 5 August 2019).

Safety and immunogenicity of three doses of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae-Moraxella catarrhalis (NTHi-Mcat) vaccine when administered according to two different schedules: a phase 2, randomised, observer-blind study

BackgroundNon-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) and Moraxella catarrhalis (Mcat) infections are frequently associated with exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Results were reported with a two-dose (0–2 months) schedule of an investigational AS01E-adjuvanted NTHi-Mcat vaccine containing three surface proteins from NTHi and one from Mcat. We evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of three NTHi-Mcat vaccine doses administered in two different schedules to adults with a smoking history (≥ 10 pack-years), immunologically representing the COPD population.MethodsIn this 18-month, randomised (1:1), observer-blind study with 6-month open follow-up, 200 healthy adults aged 40–80 years received NTHi-Mcat vaccine at 0–2–6 months and placebo at 12 months (0–2–6 group), or vaccine at 0–2–12 months and placebo at 6 months (0–2–12 group). Solicited and unsolicited adverse events (AEs) were recorded for 7 and 30 days, respectively, post-vaccination, and potential immune-mediated diseases (pIMDs) and serious AEs (SAEs) throughout the study. Immune responses were assessed.ResultsNo safety concerns were identified with the third vaccine dose or overall. Most solicited AEs were mild/moderate. Unsolicited AEs were reported in 16%, 16.1% and 14.4% of participants in the 0–2–6 group post-dose 1, 2 and 3, respectively, and 20%, 20.4% and 9.7%, respectively, in the 0–2–12 group. In 24 months, SAEs were reported in 12 participants in the 0–2–6 group and 9 in the 0–2–12 group (18 events in each group). There were three deaths (unknown cause, 0–2–6 group; myocardial infarction, lung cancer in 0–2–12 group). pIMDs were reported in three participants in the 0–2–6 group (non-serious inflammatory bowel disease, gout, psoriasis) and three in the 0–2–12 group (serious ulcerative colitis, two with non-serious gout). The SAEs, deaths and pIMDs were considered not causally related to vaccination. Antigen-specific antibody concentrations were higher at 12 months post-dose 1 with the 0–2–6 schedule than with the 0–2–12 schedule and at 12 months post-dose 3 were similar between schedules, remaining higher than baseline.ConclusionsNo safety concerns were identified when the investigational NTHi-Mcat vaccine was administered via a 0–2–6 months or 0–2–12 months schedule to older adults with a smoking history. Persistent immune responses were observed after the third vaccine dose.Trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT03443427, registered February 23, 2018.

Virus-induced and bacteria-induced exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease caused by industrial aerosols or tobacco smoke exposure

Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are associated with disease progression and increased risk of death. We need to better understand the phenotypes of AECOPD to improve treatment strategies. The main triggers of COPD exacerbations are viral and bacterial infections.The aim is to characterize the viral, bacterial, and viral-bacterial phenotypes of acute exacerbations in patients with COPD caused by industrial aerosol exposure or tobacco smoke.Methods. 180 subjects with established moderate and severe COPD who met the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria, 2020 – 2021, and were hospitalized with AECOPD, were enrolled in this prospective observational study. The virus-induced, bacteria-induced, and virus-bacteria-induced AECOPD strata (n = 60 each) were formed. Each stratum included 30 patients with occupational COPD and 30 patients with COPD caused by tobacco smoke. Virus-induced AECOPDs were diagnosed by PCR of bronchoalveolar fluid. Length of hospital stay, symptoms, lung function, mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP), and type of inflammation were assessed. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to examine the relationships.Results. The length of hospital stay was highest in patients with virus-induced and virus-bacteria-induced exacerbations of occupational COPD, being equal to (Me, IQR) 16.5 (14 – 18) and 18 (16 – 20) days. The virus-induced exacerbations in occupational COPD and in COPD caused by tobacco smoke featured the highest bronchodilation coefficient, 10.9 (9.8 – 11,5)% and 9.2 (8.3 – 10.3)%, respectively, decrease in the diffusing capacity of the lungs (DLCO/Va) by 42 (40 – 45)% and 49 (47 – 52)%, increase in mPAP by 44 (39 – 45) и 33 (29 – 38) mmHg, and eosinophilic inflammation with blood eosinophil count of 425 (385 –527) and 350 (310 – 391) cells per μl (р &gt; 0.01). Virus-bacteria-induced AECOPD in occupational COPD and in COPD caused by smoke were characterized by decrease in FEV1 by 40.2 (36.6 – 42.2)% and 31.0 (28.1 – 33.6%), decrease in DLCO/Va by 48 (44 – 50)% and 37 (35 – 41)%, increase in mPA by 43 (38 – 46) and 50 (45 – 54) mmHg, and eosinophilic-neutrophilic inflammation in 63.3 and 66.6% of patients. The mid-range FEV1, highest DLCO/Va, and neutrophilic inflammation were seen in patients with bacteria-induced AECOPD.Conclusion. Exacerbations of occupational COPD are characterized by more severe functional impairment and inflammation with high eosinophil count when these exacerbations have viral origin.

A proof of concept for continuous, non-invasive, free-living vital signs monitoring to predict readmission following an acute exacerbation of COPD: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundThe use of vital signs monitoring in the early recognition of an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) post-hospital discharge is limited. This study investigated whether continuous vital signs monitoring could predict an AECOPD and readmission.Methods35 people were recruited at discharge following hospitalisation for an AECOPD. Participants were asked to wear an Equivital LifeMonitor during waking hours for 6 weeks and to complete the Exacerbations of Chronic Pulmonary Disease Tool (EXACT), a 14-item symptom diary, daily. The Equivital LifeMonitor recorded respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), skin temperature (ST) and physical activity (PA) every 15-s. An AECOPD was classified as mild (by EXACT score), moderate (prescribed oral steroids/antibiotics) or severe (hospitalisation).ResultsOver the 6-week period, 31 participants provided vital signs and symptom data and 14 participants experienced an exacerbation, of which, 11 had sufficient data to predict an AECOPD. HR and PA were associated with EXACT score (p < 0.001). Three days prior to an exacerbation, RR increased by mean ± SD 2.0 ± 0.2 breaths/min for seven out of 11 exacerbations and HR increased by 8.1 ± 0.7 bpm for nine of these 11 exacerbations.ConclusionsIncreased heart rate and reduced physical activity were associated with worsening symptoms. Even with high-resolution data, the variation in vital signs data remains a challenge for predicting AECOPDs. Respiratory rate and heart rate should be further explored as potential predictors of an impending AECOPD.Trial registration: ISRCTN registry; ISRCTN12855961. Registered 07 November 2018—Retrospectively registered, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN12855961

Diagnostic markers of exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in workers exposed to industrial aerosols and tobacco

Introduction. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common occupational diseases registered in workers exposed to dust for a long time. This disease significantly worsens the quality of life, requires constant monitoring in the centers of occupational pathology and regular preventive measures. The proportion of COPD in the structure of occupational diseases has not changed significantly for decades, high rates of disability and premature mortality characterized this disease. The study aims to research the diagnostic parameters of COPD exacerbation under the influence of industrial aerosols and tobacco in the clinic of occupational diseases. Materials and methods. Researchers examined 153 patients with occupational COPD (toxic gases and inorganic dust). The comparison group consisted of 103 patients with smoking COPD. We established the diagnosis of COPD in accordance with the criteria of GOLD 2011. The duration of the study was 5 years. The authors conducted a complex of clinical and laboratory studies in all patients with an emphasis on the diagnostic parameters of COPD exacerbation and lung function. The critical significance level is p=0.05. Results. The development of occupational COPD under the influence of industrial aerosols and tobacco affects the frequency and predominant phenotype of exacerbations. Rare but severe exacerbations, mainly with eosinophilic type of inflammation, are present in COPD from the action of toxic gases. They respond well to therapy with systemic GCS. With COPD from the action of dust, hospitalization is not necessary for short-term exacerbations with neutrophilic type of inflammation, since such exacerbations respond to therapy with bronchodilators, and a significant proportion of exacerbations require the use of antibacterial therapy. Also, in COPD from the action of toxic gases, the experience of exposure to aerosols and gases of the production environment is an independent predictor of any exacerbations. But we do not have data on the significance of the length of service and the intensity of dust exposure. Conclusion. The risks of exacerbations of occupational COPD and the predicted features of their course depend on the etiological production factor, its intensity and duration of exposure. Clinical features determine different tactics of treatment and prevention of health deterioration. With the severity of COPD exacerbation from the action of toxic gases, symptoms of emphysema and hypoxemia are characteristic, with COPD from the action of dust, symptoms of bronchial obstruction, emphysema and hypoxemia are characteristic. Obtained results can use to construct risk meters of exacerbations and the scale of effectiveness of rehabilitation measures, to revise the standards of treatment and prevention of patients with COPD of professional genesis, as well as for the differential diagnosis of occupational obstructive pulmonary disease. Limitations. The study was conducted on the basis of Novosibirsk State Medical University and on the basis of the City Clinical Hospital No. 2. The limitations of the study may be the unidirectionality of the study performed and the small sample of patients participating in the research. Ethics. All patients have signed an informed consent form. The study program, the content of the informed consent, and the materials of the article were approved by the local ethics committee of Novosibirsk State Medical University and City Clinical Hospital No. 2.

Prognostic Role of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma Physiology Score for in-Hospital and 1-year Mortality in Patients with Acute Exacerbations of COPD.

Background and Objectives: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) often lead to high mortality. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma physiology score (CAPS) is a simple clinical severity score. The aim of this study was to explore whether CAPS could be an effective predictor for in-hospital and 1-year mortality in AECOPD patients. Methods. We used CAPS to grade all patients and record their clinical characteristics. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the cut-off of CAPS that discriminated survivors and non-survivors. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses and Cox regression analyses were used to identify the risk factors for in-hospital and 1-year mortality, respectively. Results. 240 patients were enrolled in our study; 18 patients died during hospitalization and 29 patients died during the 1-year follow-up. Compared with in-hospital survivors, those who died were older (80.83 ± 6.06 vs. 76.94 ± 8.30 years old, P = 0.019) and had a higher percentage of congestive heart failure (61.1% vs. 14.4%, P < 0.001), higher CAPS levels (31.11 ± 10.05 vs. 16.49 ± 7.11 points, P < 0.001), and a lower BMI (19.48 ± 3.26 vs. 21.50 ± 3.86, P = 0.032). The area under the ROC curve of CAPS for in-hospital death was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.85–0.96) with a sensitivity of 0.889 and a specificity of 0.802 for a cut-off point of 21 points. CAPS ≥21 points was an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality after adjustment for relative risk (RR) (RR = 13.28, 95% CI: 1.97–89.53, P = 0.008). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that a CAPS ≥21 points (HR = 4.07, 95% CI: 1.97–8.44) was a risk factor for 1-year mortality. However, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that CAPS (HR = 2.24, 95% CI: 0.90–5.53) was not associated with 1-year mortality. Conclusion: A CAPS ≥21 points was a strong and independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality in AECOPD patients and CAPS had no impact on the 1-year mortality in patients with acute exacerbations of COPD after discharge.

The association between exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and timing of paracetamol use: a cohort study in elderly Australians

BackgroundIn elderly populations, paracetamol may be used regularly for conditions such as osteoarthritis. Paracetamol has been associated with respiratory disease through a proposed mechanism of glutathione depletion and oxidative stress. Given that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is frequently co-morbid with osteoarthritis, this study investigated whether the dose and timing of paracetamol exposure may induce COPD exacerbations.MethodsThe study population was 3523 Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs full entitlement holders who had existing COPD on 1 January 2011, who were dispensed at least one prescription of paracetamol between 1 January 2011 and 30 September 2015, and had no paracetamol dispensed in the 6 months prior to 1 January 2011. The outcome was time to first hospitalisation for COPD exacerbation after initiation of paracetamol. A weighted cumulative exposure approach was used.ResultsThe association between paracetamol exposure and COPD exacerbation was protective or harmful depending on the dose, duration, and recency of exposure. Compared to non-use, current use at the maximum dose of 4 g daily for 7 days was associated with a lower risk (HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.67–0.92) and a higher risk after 30 days (HR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.06–1.52). Risk declined to baseline after 2 months. For past use, there was a short-term increase in risk on discontinuation depending of dose, duration and time since stopping.ConclusionsPatients and doctors should be aware of the possible risk of COPD exacerbation with higher dose paracetamol 1 to 6 weeks after initiation or discontinuation, but no increased risk after 2 months.

Sodium and potassium disorders in patients with COPD exacerbation presenting to the emergency department

BackgroundElectrolyte disorders are common in the emergency department. Hyponatremia is known to be associated with adverse outcome in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). No studies investigating the prevalence and influence of hypernatremia or potassium disorders in patients with AECOPD exist.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort analysis, the prevalence of sodium and potassium disorders was investigated in patients with AECOPD presenting to an emergency department (ED) between January 1st 2017 and December 31st 2018 and compared to all ED patients with electrolyte measurements and patients presenting with CAP. Exclusion criteria were age younger than 18 years, written or verbal withdrawal of consent and outpatient treatment. Additionally, the influence of dysnatremias and dyskalemias on outcome measured by ICU admission, need for mechanical ventilation, length of hospital stay, 30-day re-admission, 180-day AECOPD recurrence and in-hospital mortality and their role as predictors of disease severity measured by Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) were investigated in patients with AECOPD.ResultsNineteen point nine hundred forty-eight ED consultations with measurements of sodium and potassium were recognized between January 1st 2017 and December 31st 2018 of which 102 patients had AECOPD. Of these 23% had hyponatremia, 5% hypernatremia, 16% hypokalemia and 4% hyperkalemia on admission to the ED. Hypo- and hypernatremia were significantly more common in patients with AECOPD than in the overall ED population: 23 versus 11% (p = 0.001) for hypo- and 5% versus 0.6% (p < 0.001) for hypernatremia. In the logistic regression analysis, no association between the presence of either sodium or potassium disorders and adverse outcome were found.ConclusionDysnatremias and dyskalemias are common in patients with AECOPD with as many as 1 in 5 having hyponatremia and/or hypokalemia. Hypo- and hypernatremia were significantly more common in AECOPD than overall. No significant association was found for dysnatremias, dyskalemias and adverse outcomes in AECOPD.

The Influence of Prior Statin Use on the Prevalence and Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in an Adult Population.

BackgroundStatins have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and previous studies have reported the positive effects of statins on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) outcomes. However, the effects of statins on the development and acute exacerbations of COPD remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the relation between statin use and COPD occurrence in all participants and the link between statin use and COPD acute exacerbations in participants with COPD.MethodsThis case-control study comprised 26,875 COPD participants and 107,500 control participants who were 1:4 matched from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort. Conditional logistic regression was used to evaluate the probability of COPD occurrence associated with previous statin use. In addition, unconditional logistic regression was employed to assess the risk of exacerbations related to statin use among COPD participants. These relations were estimated in subgroup analysis according to statin type (lipophilic vs. hydrophilic).ResultsThe association between previous statin use and the occurrence of COPD did not reach statistical significance in the overall population (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.93–1.00, P = 0.059). However, statin use decreased the probability of exacerbations in participants with COPD (aOR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.74–0.85, P < 0.001). Lipophilic statins decreased the probability of exacerbations, whereas hydrophilic statins were not associated with a decreased likelihood of exacerbations (aOR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.72–0.84, P < 0.001 for lipophilic statins; aOR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.78–1.02, P = 0.102 for hydrophilic statins).DiscussionStatin use was not associated with the occurrence of COPD in the adult population. However, statin use was associated with a reduced probability of exacerbations in participants with COPD, with a greater risk reduction with lipophilic statin use.