Comprehensive patterns of comorbidity: copd and depression. Aspects of treatment

Introduction: Data on the prevalence of psychopathological disorders in the exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are very heterogeneous. COPD and depression have common predisposing factors. The aim: The aim of the research is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the effect of paroxetine on the level of depressive disorders in the exacerbation of severe degree COPD in women.

Materials and methods: The study included patients with severe degree COPD and depressive disorder. A step-by-step test, dynamometry of muscular strength of muscle groups and calculation of the percent ratio of muscular strength to mass were performed for all patients, and the strength of the respiratory muscles was measured. To assess the level of depression, the HADS questionnaire and the CES-D self-questionnaire were used. Assessment of the severity of the patient's condition was conducted according to the Hospital Alert and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results: In exacerbation of severe COPD, the level of depression in patients correlates with the severity of the main criteria: FEV1, the 6-minute step test distance, oxygen saturation after the 6-minute step test, expiratory pressure in the oral cavity.

Conclusions: Upon the synchronization of the standard therapy, the level of depression in patients with exacerbation of severe COPD effectively decreases. Paroxetine is a valid choice in the comprehensive treatment of COPD. According to the data of evidence-based medicine, the medication demonstrates high efficiency and favorable safety profile, without exerting a negative effect on COPD, which is of key significance in the combined pathology treatment.