Seric Markers and Cell Profile in Blood and Sputum in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations (AECOPD)

Abstract

AECOPD have major implications on the quality of life, morbidity and mortality of COPD patients. In addition to their assessment on clinical presentation, which can be variable and difficult to predict, a large number of biomarkers are used. Inflammation increases during exacerbations of COPD and there are changes in systemic markers like CRP, IL 6 and PARC/CC18, as well as the cell structure in sputum and blood. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of plasma biomarkers levels, sputum and hematic cell profile in patients with AECOPD. Mean concentration of serum markers studied were higher in first consultation, and significantly decreasing 21 days after. The number of cells in sputum and their structure, number of blood leucocytes has significant differences with results after 21 days. NLR resulted a reliable indicator and simple in the determining of inflammation growth. Diagnosis of AECOPD is supported by increased sputum inflammation and increased systemic inflammation as demonstrated by increased number of blood cells. IL-6, PARC/CCL-18, and CRP resulted useful for diagnosis of AECOPD and to followup stabilization. AECOPD inflammation is more evident in stage IV of the diseases.