Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 14, 2026

Methodology for Sputum Induction and Laboratory Processing
Published on: December 17, 2017
Effect of inhaled corticosteroids on blood eosinophil count in steroid-naïve patients with COPD
James L Kreindler1, Michael L Watkins2, Sally Lettis3
1GSK R&D , King of Prussia, Pennsylvania , USA.
Introduction:
Sputum and blood eosinophil counts have attracted attention as potential biomarkers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One question regarding the use of blood eosinophils as a biomarker in COPD is whether their levels are affected by the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), which are commonly prescribed for COPD.
Methods:
We performed a retrospective analysis of peripheral blood leucocytes from a previously completed clinical trial that examined effects of ICS in steroid-naïve patients with COPD.
Results And Conclusion:
The data show that the ICS-containing treatment arms (containing fluticasone propionate) had a small effect on peripheral blood eosinophils in steroid-naïve patients with COPD.
Trial Registration Number:
NCT00358358; Post-results.
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