Respiratory syncytial virus infection in COPD exacerbations: the RECODE study protocol

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbations (ECOPD) are common in adults.
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an emerging cause of adult illness.
• The role of RSV in ECOPD and its clinical impact require further definition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of RSV infection in adults experiencing ECOPD.
• To assess the association between RSV infection and key clinical outcomes in ECOPD patients.
• To evaluate RSV's impact on hospitalization, length of stay, cardiovascular events, and mortality.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, multicentre, observational, longitudinal study (NCT06735612) was conducted.
• Adults aged 50 years and older with ECOPD were enrolled.
• RSV status was determined using Reverse Transcription (RT-PCR) on nasopharyngeal swabs, with additional clinical data collected.

Main Results:

• The study determined the prevalence of RSV in ECOPD patients.
• Associations between RSV infection and clinically relevant outcomes were assessed.
• Data on hospitalization, length of stay, acute cardiovascular events, and mortality were collected and analyzed.

Conclusions:

• The findings will clarify the prevalence of RSV during ECOPD.
• Understanding RSV's impact is crucial for managing COPD exacerbations.
• Results will inform clinical practice and public health strategies regarding RSV in vulnerable populations.