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Published on: July 10, 2018
Evaluation of atopy in patients with COPD
Margarida Célia Lima Costa Neves1, Yuri Costa Sarno Neves, Carlos Mauricio Cardeal Mendes
1Department of Pulmonology, Professor Edgard Santos Hospital Complex, Federal University of Bahia, School of Medicine, Salvador, Brazil.
Summary
Atopy is common in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Upper airway inflammation monitoring may aid in managing elderly patients with COPD and co-existing asthma.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Medicine
- Immunology
- Allergy
Background:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major global health concern.
- The relationship between atopy and COPD requires further investigation.
- Atopy, characterized by a predisposition to allergic diseases, may influence COPD phenotypes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of atopy in patients with stable COPD.
- To evaluate the clinical, laboratory, and radiological profiles associated with atopy in COPD patients.
- To explore the potential link between upper airway inflammation and COPD severity.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study of 149 outpatients with stable COPD.
- Data collection included questionnaires, nasal lavage cytology, skin prick testing, chest X-rays, arterial blood gas analysis, and serum IgE levels.
- Patients were classified based on clinical history and post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of atopy was observed: 35.6% nasal eosinophilia, 32.8% positive skin prick tests, and 59.1% allergic rhinitis symptoms.
- Distinct disease patterns emerged: less severe COPD associated with atopy, and more severe COPD (reduced FEV1, hyperinflation) without atopy.
- Nasal eosinophilia significantly correlated with a positive bronchodilator response.
Conclusions:
- Atopy is frequently present in patients with COPD.
- Monitoring upper airway inflammation is a valuable tool for assessing respiratory conditions, particularly in the elderly.
- Understanding the interplay between asthma and COPD is crucial for managing this complex clinical entity.
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