Correlation of CAT Score With Peak Expiratory Flow in Acute Exacerbation of COPD Patients

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) leads to physical activity limitation and a significant reduction in quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between The COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score and peak expiratory flow (PEF), and the factors effecting hospital admission rates of patients with COPD.

This observational study was conducted prospectively. CAT score was calculated and PEF measured at the time of emergency department admission. Descriptive statistics were expressed as number (n), percentage (%), and mean ± standard deviation. Chi-Square and correlation tests were used for statistical analyses. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Of 123 patients included in the study, 85 (69.1%) were male and 38 (30.9%) were female. Pulse pressure, pH, blood urea nitrogen, oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry (SpO₂), PO₂, PCO_2, and SpO₂ values on arterial blood gas analysis, and PEF value were significantly correlated to CAT score (p < 0.05).

High CAT score and low PEF value can be used to make the decision of hospitalization from emergency department in acute exacerbations of COPD.