Inhaled corticosteroids and the increased risk of pneumonia: what's new? A 2015 updated review

Overuse of long-acting β2-agonist/inhaled corticosteroids in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: time to rethink prescribing patterns

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. In the major revision of the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2023 report, the scientific committee concluded that the use of long-acting β2-agonist/inhaled corticosteroids (LABA/ICS) is not encouraged in patients with COPD. However, current prescribing patterns reveal significant use of LABA/ICS. In this paper, the evidence behind the current practice and the latest treatment recommendations is reviewed. We compare the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and LABA vs LABA/ICS and note that LAMA/LABA combinations have reduced the annual rate of moderate/severe exacerbations, delayed the time to first exacerbation, and increased post-dose FEV1 vs ICS-based regimens. The GOLD 2023 report recommends treatment with LABA and LAMA combination (preferably as a single inhaler) in patients with persistent dyspnea, with initiation of ICS in patients based on the symptoms (dyspnea and exercise intolerance as indicated by modified Medical Research Council [mMRC] score ≥ 2 and COPD Assessment Test [CAT™] > 20), blood eosinophil count (≥ 300 cells/µL), and exacerbation history (history of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD and ≥ 2 moderate exacerbations per year despite appropriate long-acting bronchodilator maintenance therapy). We describe practical recommendations for primary care physicians to optimize therapy for their patients and prevent overuse of ICS-based regimens. We advocate adherence to current recommendations and a greater focus on effective treatments to successfully control symptoms, minimize exacerbation risk, preserve lung function, maximize patient outcomes, and reduce the burden of drug-related adverse events.

Inhaled corticosteroids and adverse outcomes among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with community-acquired pneumonia: a population-based cohort study

INTRODUCTION

While inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) may increase pneumonia risk in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the impact of ICS on pneumonia outcomes is debated. We examined whether ICS use is associated with adverse outcomes among COPD patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Population-based cohort study of all COPD patients with an incident hospitalization for CAP between 1997 and 2013 in Northern Denmark. Information on medications, COPD severity, comorbidities, complications, and death was obtained from medical databases. Adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) for pleuropulmonary complications, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and 30-day mortality in current and former ICS users were compared with those in non-users, using regression analyzes to handle confounding.

RESULTS

Of 11,368 COPD patients with CAP, 6,073 (53.4%) were current ICS users and 1,733 (15.2%) were former users. Current users had a non-significantly decreased risk of pleuropulmonary complications [2.6%; aRR = 0.82 (0.59-1.12)] compared to non-users (3.2%). This was also observed among former users [2.5%; aRR = 0.77 (0.53-1.12)]. Similarly, decreased risks of ICU admission were observed among current users [aRR = 0.77 (0.57-1.04)] and among former users [aRR = 0.81 (0.58-1.13)]. Current ICS users had significantly decreased 30-day mortality [9.1%; aRR = 0.72 (0.62-0.85)] compared to non-users (12.6%), with a stronger association observed among patients with frequent exacerbations [0.58 (0.39-0.86)]. No significant association was observed among former ICS users [0.89 (0.75-1.05)].

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest a decreased risk of death with ICS use among COPD patients admitted for CAP.

Withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids from patients with COPD with mild or moderate airflow limitation in primary care: a feasibility randomised trial

Background

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are frequently prescribed outside guidelines to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with mild/moderate airflow limitation and low exacerbation risk. This primary care trial explored the feasibility of identifying patients with mild/moderate COPD taking ICS, and the acceptability of ICS withdrawal.

Methods

Open feasibility trial. Outcome measures included prevalence of suitable participants, feasibility of their identification, their willingness-to-accept open randomisation to ICS withdrawal or continuation over 6 months follow-up.

Results

392 (13%) of 2967 patients with COPD from 20 practices (209 618 population) identified as eligible for ICS withdrawal by electronic search algorithm. After individual patient record review, 243 (62%) were excluded because of: severe airflow limitation (65, 17%); one or more severe or two or more moderate COPD exacerbations in the previous year (86, 22%); asthma (15, 4%); and severe comorbidities (77, 20%). After exclusion, 149 patients with COPD were invited to participate and 61 agreed to randomisation. At clinical assessment, 10 patients exhibited undocumented airflow reversibility (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁) reversibility >12% and >200 mL); 2 had suffered two or more undocumented, moderate exacerbations in the previous year; 7 had severe airflow limitation; and 2 had normal spirometry. Finally, 40 were randomised. One patient died and one was lost to follow-up. 18 (45%) of the 38 (10 withdrawal and 8 usual care) exhibited previously undocumented FEV₁ variability suggestive of asthma, supported in the withdrawal group by significant associations with elevated fractional exhaled nitric oxide (p=0.04), elevated symptom score (p=0.04), poorer quality of life (p=0.04) and atopic status (p=0.01).

Conclusions

Identifying primary care patients with mild/moderate COPD suitable for ICS withdrawal is feasible but requires real-time verification because of unreliable recording of exacerbations and lung function. Suitable patients accepted randomisation to ICS withdrawal or continuation for the purposes of future studies. Follow-up compliance was high. Nearly 50% of participants with a diagnosis of mild/moderate COPD demonstrated previously undocumented FEV₁ variability during follow-up, mandating monitoring for at least 6 months following withdrawal to exclude undiagnosed asthma.

Cost-consequence analysis of COPD treatment according to NICE and GOLD recommendations compared with current clinical practice in the UK

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to model the clinical and economic impact of adapting current clinical practice in the management of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to treatment according to national and international guideline recommendations.

DESIGN

Treatment mapping was undertaken to hypothetically redistribute patients from current clinical practice, representing actual prescribing patterns in the UK, to an alternative recommendation-based treatment scenario, representing prescribing in accordance with either National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance [NG115] or Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2020 strategy.

SETTING

Primary care practices in the UK (1-year time horizon).

PARTICIPANTS

Adults with COPD undergoing long-acting inhaler maintenance therapy in the UK (N=1 067,531).

INTERVENTIONS

Inhaler maintenance therapy.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Costs and clinical outcomes (type of treatment, rates of moderate and/or severe exacerbations, and mild-to-moderate and/or severe pneumonia events) were modelled for the two alternative pathways.

RESULTS

Compared with current clinical practice, treating patients according to NICE guidance resulted in an estimated annual reduction in expenditure of £46.9 million, and an estimated annual reduction in expenditure of over £43.7 million when patients were treated according to GOLD 2020 strategy. Total cost savings of up to 8% annually could be achieved by treatment of patients according to either of these recommendations. Cost savings arose from a reduction in the rates of pneumonia, with an associated decrease in costs associated with antibiotic use and hospitalisation. Savings were achieved overall despite a small increase in the rate of exacerbations due to the redistribution of certain patients currently undergoing triple inhaled therapy to therapies not containing inhaled corticosteroids.

CONCLUSION

Redistribution of patients with COPD from current clinical practice to treatment according to published recommendations would provide substantial cost savings over the first year.

Characteristics and outcomes among patients with community-acquired respiratory virus infections during the first year after lung transplantation

BACKGROUND

The current study describes the spectrum of community-acquired respiratory infections (CARV) during the first year after lung transplantation (LT). Additionally, we elucidate variables associated with CARV, management strategies utilized, and impact on early and late outcomes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study among patients transplanted between 2012 and 2015 (n = 255, mean age 55.6 ± 13.5 years, M: F 152:103). The diagnosis of CARV was based on the multiplex PCR on nasopharyngeal swab samples. Baseline characteristics, post-transplant variables, and outcomes were compared among patients with and without CARV.

RESULTS

Eighty CARV infections developed among a quarter of the study group (n = 62, 24.3%). Rhinovirus/enterovirus was the most commonly isolated CARV (n = 24) followed by coronavirus (n = 17) and RSV (n = 9). A significant proportion of episodes (43.8%) required hospitalization. The use of nasal corticosteroids and left single LT was independently associated with an increased risk of CARV. CARV infections did not impact the lung functions during the first year or the CLAD-free survival at 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant burden of CARV infections during the first year after LT. The use of nasal corticosteroids may increase the risk of CARV infection. CARV infections did not impact outcomes.

Efficacy of FF/UMEC/VI compared with FF/VI and UMEC/VI in patients with COPD: subgroup analysis of the Spain cohort in IMPACT

OBJECTIVES

The IMPACT trial has compared the benefit in the reduction of moderate/severe exacerbations of single inhaler triple therapy (SITT) with fluticasone furoate (FF)/umeclidinium (UMEC)/vilanterol (VI) versus dual therapy with FF/VI (ICS/LABA) and UMEC/VI (LAMA/LABA) in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive disease (COPD). This study performs a subgroup analysis of the cohort from Spain in the IMPACT study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In IMPACT, a 52-week randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, multicenter study (N = 10,355), patients ⩾40 years of age with COPD and ⩾1 moderate/severe exacerbations in the previous year were randomized 2:2:1 to once-daily FF/UMEC/VI 100/62.5/25 µg, FF/VI 100/25 µg or UMEC/VI 62.5/25 µg administered via the Ellipta inhaler. Here, we present a subgroup analysis of the 499 patients from Spain, included in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population in the study. Endpoint assessed included exposure-adjusted rate of moderate and severe exacerbations.

RESULTS

In the Spain cohort, the exposure-adjusted rate of on-treatment moderate/severe COPD exacerbations per year for FF/UMEC/VI was 1.31 versus 1.43 and 1.57 for FF/VI and UMEC/VI, respectively. No new adverse events were identified. The results are consistent with those observed in the overall ITT study population.

CONCLUSION

In the Spain cohort of the IMPACT study, patients receiving triple therapy with FF/UMEC/VI had a lower exposure-adjusted rate of exacerbations compared with FF/VI and UMEC/VI, similar to the overall population.Study Title: A Phase III, 52 Week, Randomized, Double-blind, 3-arm Parallel Group Study, Comparing the Efficacy, Safety and Tolerability of the Fixed Dose Triple Combination FF/UMEC/VI With the Fixed Dose Dual Combinations of FF/VI and UMEC/VI, All Administered Once-daily in the Morning Via a Dry Powder Inhaler in Subjects With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary DiseaseURL: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search?query=CTT116855/ https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02164513Registration number: GSK (CTT116855/NCT02164513).The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.

Next-generation sequencing technology for detecting pulmonary fungal infection in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of a patient with dermatomyositis: a case report and literature review

Background

Invasive fungal pneumonia is a severe infectious disease with high mortality in immunocompromised patients. However, the clinical diagnosis of the pathogen(s) remains difficult since microbiological evidence is difficult to acquire.

Case presentation

Here, we report a case of pulmonary fungal infection detected by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in a 61-year-old male with corticosteroid-treated dermatomyositis. Cytomegalovirus and influenza A virus infections were confirmed by nucleic acid detection and treated with antiviral medicine. The patient had been diagnosed with severe pneumonia and treated with empiric broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal drugs before bronchoscopy was performed. The patient responded poorly to those empiric treatments. Three fungi were found by NGS in the BALF, namely, Pneumocystis jirovecii, Aspergillus fumigatus and Rhizopus oryzae. After adjusting the patient’s treatment plan according to the NGS results, he improved significantly.

Conclusions

This case highlights the combined application of NGS and traditional tests in the clinical diagnosis of pulmonary invasive fungal disease. NGS is proposed as an important adjunctive diagnostic approach for identifying uncommon pathogens.

Associations among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with asthma, pneumonia, and corticosteroid use in the general population

Purpose

To evaluate the association among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with asthma, steroid use, and pneumonia in the general population.

Methods

Using Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database to identify patients with incident pneumonia, we established a COPD with asthma cohort of 12,538 patients and a COPD cohort of 25,069 patients. In both cohorts, the risk of incident pneumonia was assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for incident pneumonia was 2.38 (2.14, 2.66) in the COPD with asthma cohort, regardless of age, sex, comorbidities, and drug use. COPD cohort without inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) use served as a reference. The aHR (95% CI) for COPD cohort with ICSs use was 1.34 (0.98, 1.83); that for COPD with asthma cohort without ICSs use was 2.46 (2.20, 2.76); and that for COPD with asthma cohort with ICSs use was 2.32 (1.99, 2.72). COPD cohort without oral steroids (OSs) use served as a reference; the aHR (95% CI) for COPD with asthma cohort without OSs use and with OSs use was 3.25 (2.72, 3.89) and 2.38 (2.07, 2.74), respectively.

Conclusions

The COPD with asthma cohort had a higher risk of incident pneumonia, regardless of age, sex, comorbidities, and ICSs or OSs use. COPD cohort with ICSs use did not have a notable risk of incident pneumonia. The COPD with asthma cohort had a higher risk of incident pneumonia, even without ICSs/OSs use.

Inhaled Corticosteroids And Risk Of Tuberculosis In Patients With Obstructive Lung Diseases: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis Of Non-randomized Studies

Background

An association between systemic corticosteroids and tuberculosis (TB) is reported in the literature. Here within, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) on the risk of TB in patients with obstructive lung diseases.

Methods

The review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42018095874). PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus and Web of Science were searched from inception to September 2018. Papers reporting cases of incident TB in patients with obstructive lung diseases were included; studies without data on ICS use were excluded. Simultaneous use of oral corticosteroids (OCS) and population attributable fraction (PAF) for TB from ICS exposure were also assessed. Data were analyzed using a generic inverse variance method with a random-effects model. ORs with 95% CI were estimated.

Results

Out of 4044 retrieved papers, 9 articles evaluating adult patients only were included in the review. 36,351 patients were prescribed ICS, while 147,171 were not. Any ICS use was associated with an increased risk of TB versus no ICS use (OR=1.46; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.01; p=0.02; I²=96%). A similar result was also found for current ICS use versus prior/no ICS use, as well as for high, moderate and low ICS dose versus no ICS. When simultaneous OCS use was evaluated, the independent contribution of ICS was confirmed only in patients not on OCS (OR=1.63; 95% CI 1.05 to 2.52; p=0.03; I²=94%). Only 0.49% of all TB cases could be attributable to ICS exposure.

Conclusions

Despite the association between ICS and TB, the contribution of this risk factor to the epidemiology of TB seems to be limited. As a consequence, no population-based interventions are warranted. Rather, this risk should be taken into account on an individual basis, particularly in those patients with a high risk of progression from LTBI to TB.

New therapeutic targets for the prevention of infectious acute exacerbations of COPD: role of epithelial adhesion molecules and inflammatory pathways

Chronic respiratory diseases are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide, with the major contributor, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) accounting for approximately 3 million deaths annually. Frequent acute exacerbations (AEs) of COPD (AECOPD) drive clinical and functional decline in COPD and are associated with accelerated loss of lung function, increased mortality, decreased health-related quality of life and significant economic costs. Infections with a small subgroup of pathogens precipitate the majority of AEs and consequently constitute a significant comorbidity in COPD. However, current pharmacological interventions are ineffective in preventing infectious exacerbations and their treatment is compromised by the rapid development of antibiotic resistance. Thus, alternative preventative therapies need to be considered. Pathogen adherence to the pulmonary epithelium through host receptors is the prerequisite step for invasion and subsequent infection of surrounding structures. Thus, disruption of bacterial-host cell interactions with receptor antagonists or modulation of the ensuing inflammatory profile present attractive avenues for therapeutic development. This review explores key mediators of pathogen-host interactions that may offer new therapeutic targets with the potential to prevent viral/bacterial-mediated AECOPD. There are several conceptual and methodological hurdles hampering the development of new therapies that require further research and resolution.

Classification and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease outpatients in China according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2017: comparison with GOLD 2014

Background

In 2017, the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) proposed new classification criteria for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which categorizes them into groups A-D based on risk of exacerbations and symptoms. The impact of the 2017 revisions on categorization and subsequent drug selection has been insufficiently studied in China.

Methods

This observational, multicenter, cross-sectional study recruited patients attending the outpatient clinics of 12 tertiary hospitals in China between April 2016 and July 2018. Patients were classified according to the GOLD 2014 and 2017 classification criteria and profiled based on categorization, demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment regimens.

Results

In total, 1,278 COPD patients [mean age (±SD), 62.4±8.4 years; body mass index (BMI), 22.3±3.4 kg/m²] were included. According to the GOLD 2014 and 2017 classification criteria, the distribution in groups A-D was 58 (4.5%), 288 (22.5%), 28 (2.2%), 904 (70.7%) and 71 (5.6%), 573 (44.8%), 15 (1.2%), 619 (48.4%), respectively. Overall, 32% of patients in groups C-D were reclassified to groups A-B. Based on both GOLD 2014 and 2017, low BMI and education level were independent risk factors for high risk of exacerbation (i.e., being in groups C-D) (P<0.05). The patients who were reclassified from group D to B were younger and had fewer symptoms than those who remained in group D. The most frequently prescribed regimen was triple inhaled treatment (39.4%). Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) were prescribed across all groups, and 205 (71.9%) of the 285 patients who were reclassified from group D to B were treated with ICS.

Conclusions

GOLD 2017 reclassified COPD patients to low-risk groups. The risk of exacerbation increased with decreased BMI or education levels. Overtreatment was observed in many patients, and physicians should reexamine treatment patterns for patients reclassified into low-risk groups.

Triple therapy (ICS/LABA/LAMA) in COPD: time for a reappraisal

Recently, two "fixed triple" single-inhaler combinations of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), a long-acting β₂-agonist (LABA), and a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) have become available for patients with COPD. This review presents the clinical evidence that led to the approval of these triple therapies, discusses the role of ICS in patients with COPD, and presents data on the relative efficacy of "fixed triple" (ICS/LAMA/LABA) therapy vs LAMA, ICS/LABA, and LAMA/LABA combinations, and summarizes studies in which ICS/LABAs were combined with LAMAs to form "open triple" combinations. Of the five main fixed triple studies completed so far, three evaluated the efficacy and safety of an extrafine formulation of beclometasone dipropionate, formoterol fumarate, and glycopyrronium; the other two studies evaluated fluticasone furoate, vilanterol, and umeclidinium. Overall, compared to LAMA, ICS/LABA, or LAMA/LABA, triple therapy decreased the risk of exacerbations and improved lung function and health status, with a favorable benefit-to-harm ratio. Furthermore, triple therapy showed a promising signal in terms of improved survival. The evidence suggests that triple therapy is the most effective treatment in moderate/severe symptomatic patients with COPD at risk of exacerbations, with marginal if any risk of side effects including pneumonia. Ongoing studies are examining the role of triple therapy in less severe symptomatic patients with COPD and asthma-COPD overlap.

Current challenges in managing comorbid heart failure and COPD

INTRODUCTION

Heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently coexist, particularly in the elderly. Given their rising prevalence and the contemporary trend to longer life expectancy, overlapping HF-COPD will become a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the next decade. Areas covered: Drawing on current clinical and physiological constructs, the consequences of negative cardiopulmonary interactions on the interpretation of pulmonary function and cardiopulmonary exercise tests in HF-COPD are discussed. Although those interactions may create challenges for the diagnosis and assessment of disease stability, they provide a valuable conceptual framework to rationalize HF-COPD treatment. The impact of COPD or HF on the pharmacological treatment of HF or COPD, respectively, is then comprehensively discussed. Authors finalize by outlining how the non-pharmacological treatment (i.e. rehabilitation and exercise reconditioning) can be tailored to the specific needs of patients with HF-COPD. Expert commentary: Randomized clinical trials testing the efficacy and safety of new medications for HF or COPD should include a sizeable fraction of patients with these coexistent pathologies. Multidisciplinary clinics involving cardiologists and respirologists trained in both diseases (with access to unified cardiorespiratory rehabilitation programs) are paramount to decrease the humanitarian and social burden of HF-COPD.

Low incidence of pneumonia in COPD patients treated with inhaled corticosteroids undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation

Background

Based on meta-analyses results, it is currently acknowledged that there is an increased risk of pneumonia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) undergoing inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) treatment. However, this is not found to be true in those with asthma. No data on this risk are available for COPD patients involved in pulmonary rehabilitation program (PR).

Methods

For 1 year, we prospectively studied 2 cohorts of COPD patients—undergoing PR and not undergoing PR. The first group included 438 patients undergoing PR of which 353 were treated with ICS, and 85 were treated with bronchodilators only. The second group was comprised of 76 COPD patients who were treated with ICS, but not PR. The control group consisted of 49 ICS-treated patients with asthma. The diagnosis of pneumonia, when suspected, had to be confirmed with a chest x-ray.

Results

Overall, 6 cases of pneumonia were diagnosed in the first study group: 5 ICS-treated patients and 1 patient treated only with bronchodilators. This corresponded to a rate of 1.41 and 1.17%, respectively, compared to a rate of 6.6% in COPD patients not treated with PR, which was significantly higher (p = 0.029) than that in the first study group. No case of pneumonia was registered among patients with asthma.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that a significantly lower incidence of pneumonia is found in COPD patients treated with ICS and PR than in patients treated with ICS but not with PR. This observation deserves to be investigated in large populations of PR-treated COPD patients, possibly in multi-centric cohort studies.

Interferon alpha as antiviral therapy in chronic active Epstein-Barr virus disease with interstitial pneumonia - case report

BACKGROUND

Chronic active Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) disease (CAEBV) is defined as a severe, progressive lymphoproliferative disorder associated with active EBV infection persisting longer than 6 months and developing in patients without recognised immunodeficiency. Rarely, interstitial pneumonitis (IP) occurs as a serious complication in CAEBV patients. The standard therapeutic regimen for IP in CAEBV has not yet been defined. Although interferon alpha (IFN-alpha) is known to suppress viral DNA replication by affecting its basal promoter activation process, it is rarely used in CAEBV patients.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 22-year-old Caucasian woman, diagnosed with CAEBV 1.5 years earlier, was admitted to the Immunology Clinic due to a 4-week history of productive cough, fever and general weakness. Cultures of blood, urine and sputum were negative, but EBV DNA copies were found in the sputum, whole blood, isolated peripheral blood lymphocytes as well as in the blood plasma. Cytokine assessment in peripheral blood revealed the lack of IFN-alpha synthesis. Disseminated maculate infiltrative areas in both lungs were observed on a computed tomography (CT) chest scan. The patient was not qualified for the allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) due to the risk of immunosuppression-related complications of infectious IP. Inhaled (1.5 million units 3 times a day) and subcutaneous (6 million units 3 times a week) IFN-alpha was implemented. To the best of our knowledge, this was the first documented use of inhaled IFN-alpha in a patient with CAEBV and concomitant IP. Patient's status has improved, and she was eventually qualified to allo-HSCT with reduced conditioning. Currently, the patient feels well, no EBV was detected and further regression of pulmonary changes was documented.

CONCLUSIONS

CAEBV should be considered in patients who present with interstitial lung infiltration and involvement of other organs. Although more promising results have been obtained with allo-HSCT, inhaled IFN-alpha may also be a therapeutic option in patients with CAEBV and a concomitant IP.

[Community-acquired pneumonia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treated with inhaled corticosteroids or other bronchodilators. Study PNEUMOCORT]

Objetivos

Analizar el riesgo de neumonía y/o exacerbaciones en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) tratados con corticoides inhalados (CI) y no tratados con CI (NCI). Estimar el riesgo de neumonía según la dosis de CI.

Diseño

Estudio de cohortes de base poblacional.

Emplazamiento

Atención Primaria. Institut Català de la Salut.

Participantes

Pacientes ≥ 45 años diagnosticados de EPOC entre 2007 y 2009 en el Sistema de Información para el Desarrollo de la Investigación en Atención Primaria (SIDIAP).

Intervención

Dos cohortes; pacientes que inician CI y pacientes que inician broncodilatadores NCI después del diagnóstico de EPOC.

Mediciones principales

Sociodemográficas, tabaquismo, antecedentes patológicos, neumonías, exacerbaciones, vacunaciones y tratamientos farmacológicos.

Resultados

Se incluyeron 3.837 pacientes: el 58% en el grupo CI y el 42% en el grupo NCI. Se detectaron incidencias superiores de neumonía y exacerbaciones en el grupo CI respecto al NCI (2,18 vs. 1,37). El riesgo de neumonía y de exacerbaciones graves no fue significativamente diferente entre grupos: HR de 1,17 (IC 95%: 0,87-1,56) y de 1,06 (IC 95%: 0,87-1,31), respectivamente. En el grupo CI presentaron mayor riesgo de exacerbaciones leves, con HR de 1,28 (IC 95%: 1,10-1,50). Las variables asociadas a mayor riesgo de neumonías fueron: edad, diabetes, neumonías y bronquitis previas, EPOC muy grave, tratamiento con β₂-adrenérgicos o anticolinérgicos a dosis bajas, y tratamiento previo con corticoides orales.

Conclusiones

No hubo diferencias entre cohortes en el riesgo de NAC ni exacerbaciones graves. Las exacerbaciones leves fueron superiores en el grupo CI. Tanto NAC como exacerbaciones graves fueron más frecuentes en pacientes con EPOC grave y en pacientes tratados con dosis altas de CI.

Inhaled corticosteroids in COPD: Personalising the therapeutic choice

There has been a recent surge in interest in the role of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in the treatment of COPD, especially regarding patients with high eosinophil counts. Evidence has shown that despite the increase in localised adverse effects and a small increase in non-fatal pneumonia events with ICS use, ICS still have an important role to play in reducing exacerbation rates and addressing the inflammation that is at the heart of the pathogenesis of COPD. Current international guidelines recommend the use of ICS only in patients with severe disease. This review examines the potential role of ICS in all COPD patients.

Classification of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) according to the new Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2017: Comparison with GOLD 2011

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) project has been working to improve awareness, prevention and management of this disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate how COPD patients are reclassified by the 2017 GOLD system (versus GOLD 2011), to calculate the level of agreement between these two classifications in allocation to categories and to compare the performance of each classification to predict future exacerbations. Two-hundred COPD patients (>40 years, post bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity<0.7) followed in pulmonology consultation were recruited into this prospective multicentric study. Approximately half of the patients classified as GOLD D [2011] changed to GOLD B [2017]. The extent of agreement between GOLD 2011 and GOLD 2017 was moderate (Cohen's Kappa = 0.511; p < 0.001) and the ability to predict exacerbations was similar (69.7% and 67.6%, respectively). GOLD B [2017] exacerbated 17% more than GOLD B [2011] and had a lower percent predicted post bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). GOLD B [2017] turned to be the predominant category, more heterogeneous and with a higher risk of exacerbation versus GOLD B [2011]. Physicians should be cautious in assessing the GOLD B [2017] patients. The assessment of patients should always be personalized. More studies are needed to evaluate the impact of the 2017 reclassification in predicting outcomes such as future exacerbations and mortality.

Effects of inhaled corticosteroids /long-acting agonists in a single inhaler versus inhaled corticosteroids alone on all-cause mortality, pneumonia, and fracture in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A nationwide cohort study 2002-2013

BACKGROUND

Both inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting ?-agonists (LABA) have been recommended for the treatment of severe/moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but mild COPD has not been frequently studied.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study to compare the effect of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and ICS/long-acting ?-agonist (LABA) in a single inhaler on all-cause mortality and adverse events, such as pneumonia and fracture, in patients with newly diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We used representative nationwide cohort data from the Korean National Health Insurance claims database (2002-2013). Patients who were at least 40-years-old, newly diagnosed with COPD, and prescribed ICS or ICS/LABA in a single inhaler (N = 1995). To analyze the data, we utilized a Cox's proportional hazard regression.

RESULTS

Among the total of 1995 patients, 807 had severe COPD (FEV₁ < 50%) and 1188 had mild/moderate COPD (FEV₁ ? 50%). The cumulative incidence and 5-year cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 59.5% and 29.6% for ICS users, and 35.8% and 20.2% for single inhaler ICS/LABA users, respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of all-cause mortality for new ICS/LABA users, compared with that in new ICS users, was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.62-0.95) for the total population. For the severe and non-severe COPD groups, the adjusted HRs of all-cause mortality for new ICS/LABA users were 1.07 (95% CI: 0.65-1.76) and 0.70 (95% CI: 0.55-0.89), respectively. There was no difference in the risk for the first hospitalization due to pneumonia between new ICS and ICS/LABA users among the total population (HR: 1.02; 95% CI: 0.79-1.34). The adjusted HR of the first hospitalization for fractures in new ICS/LABA users, compared with that in new ICS users, was 0.60 (95% CI: 0.39-0.92) for the total population.

CONCLUSIONS

Among newly diagnosed COPD patients and new users of ICS or ICS/LABA, use of ICS/LABA in a single inhaler was associated with lowered risk of all-cause mortality and delayed first hospitalization for fracture, as compared with use of ICS alone. However, there was no significant difference in terms of first hospitalization for pneumonia.

Risk of pneumonia in obstructive lung disease: A real-life study comparing extra-fine and fine-particle inhaled corticosteroids

BACKGROUND

Regular use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in patients with obstructive lung diseases has been associated with a higher risk of pneumonia, particularly in COPD. The risk of pneumonia has not been previously evaluated in relation to ICS particle size and dose used.

METHODS

Historical cohort, UK database study of 23,013 patients with obstructive lung disease aged 12-80 years prescribed extra-fine or fine-particle ICS. The endpoints assessed during the outcome year were diagnosis of pneumonia, acute exacerbations and acute respiratory events in relation to ICS dose. To determine the association between ICS particle size, dose and risk of pneumonia in unmatched and matched treatment groups, logistic and conditional logistic regression models were used.

RESULTS

14788 patients were stepped-up to fine-particle ICS and 8225 to extra-fine ICS. On unmatched analysis, patients stepping-up to extra-fine ICS were significantly less likely to be coded for pneumonia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.60; 95% CI 0.37, 0.97]); experience acute exacerbations (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 0.91; 95%CI 0.85, 0.97); and acute respiratory events (aRR 0.90; 95%CI 0.86, 0.94) compared with patients stepping-up to fine-particle ICS. Patients prescribed daily ICS doses in excess of 700 mcg (fluticasone propionate equivalent) had a significantly higher risk of pneumonia (OR [95%CI] 2.38 [1.17, 4.83]) compared with patients prescribed lower doses, irrespective of particle size.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that patients with obstructive lung disease on extra-fine particle ICS have a lower risk of pneumonia than those on fine-particle ICS, with those receiving higher ICS doses being at a greater risk.

Role of Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonist/Long-Acting β2-Agonist Therapy in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

OBJECTIVE

To compare the available literature regarding the use of long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)/long-acting β₂ agonists (LABA) and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)/LABA combination inhaler therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) maintenance therapy management.

DATA SOURCES

A MEDLINE literature search from database inception to February 2017 was conducted using the search terms chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, adrenergic beta-agonist, muscarinic antagonist, and inhaled corticosteroid. References from extracted sources were further searched for any relevant, missed data sources.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

All English-language randomized-controlled trials comparing LAMA/LABA and ICS/LABA combination inhaler therapy were evaluated.

DATA SYNTHESIS

A total of 10 randomized controlled trials have reviewed the use of LAMA/LABA compared with ICS/LABA therapy for COPD maintenance therapy. Results of clinical trials that evaluated LAMA/LABA and ICS/LABA maintenance therapy demonstrated superior improvements in pulmonary function tests via spirometry and improved clinical outcomes with LAMA/LABA therapy, specifically reduction in COPD exacerbation rates. The safety of LAMA/LABA combination therapy also is favorable compared with ICS/LABA combination therapy because of the increased infection risk with ICS therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

COPD is a disease state with significant morbidity and mortality in the United States and is the third leading cause of death. Long-acting inhalers are recommended for the majority of COPD severities, and combination therapy is typically utilized. LAMA/LABA combination therapy has demonstrated superior improvements in pulmonary function and reduction in COPD exacerbation rates compared with ICS/LABA. LAMA/LABA combination therapy will have a larger future role in COPD maintenance management.

Inhaled Corticosteroid Use in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Risk of Pneumonia: A Nested Case-Control Population-based Study in Lazio (Italy)-The OUTPUL Study

Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients is associated with a reduction of exacerbations and a potential risk of pneumonia. The objective was to determine if ICS use, with or without long-acting β₂-agonist, increases pneumonia risk in COPD patients. A cohort study was performed using linked hospital and drug prescription databases in the Lazio region. Patients (45+) discharged with COPD in 2006-2009 were enrolled and followed from cohort entry until first admission for pneumonia, death or study end, 31 December, 2012. A nested case-control approach was used to estimate the rate ratio (RR) associated with current or past use of ICS adjusted for age, gender, number of exacerbations in the previous year and co-morbidities. Current users were defined as patients with their last ICS prescribed in the 60 days prior to the event. Past users were those with the last prescription between 61 and 365 days before the event. Current use was classified into three levels (high, medium, low) according to the medication possession ratio. Among the cohort of 19288 patients, 3141 had an event of pneumonia (incidence rate for current use 87/1000py, past use 32/1000py). After adjustment, patients with current use were 2.29 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.99-2.63) times more likely to be hospitalised for pneumonia with respect to no use; for past use RR was 1.23 (95% CI: 1.07-1.42). For older patients (80+), the rate was higher than that for younger patients. ICS use was associated with an excess risk of pneumonia. The effect was greatest for higher doses and in the very elderly.

Human Coronavirus-HKU1 Infection Among Adults in Cleveland, Ohio

BACKGROUND

Human coronaviruses (CoV) have been long recognized as a common cause of respiratory tract disease including severe respiratory tract illness. Coronavirus-HKU1 has been described predominantly among children less than 5 years of age in the United States with few studies characterizing the disease spectrum among adults.

METHODS

Nasopharyngeal specimens of patients with respiratory symptoms were analyzed for CoV-HKU1 by NxTAG Respiratory Pathogen Panel multiplex assay from February 7, 2016 to April 30, 2016. Epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected on adults (patients >18 years) whose samples screened positive.

RESULTS

Of 832 adult respiratory specimens screened, 13 (1.6%) cases of CoV-HKU1 were identified. Adults age ranged between 23 and 75 years and 6 (46%) were males. All of whom had 1 or more respiratory symptoms, and 5 (38%) also reported 1 or more gastrointestinal symptoms. Eleven (85%) reported history of smoking and 5 (38%) used inhaled steroids. Seven (54%) required hospitalization, 5 (71%) of these needed supplemental oxygen, and 2 (29%) were admitted to intensive care. Median length of hospitalization was 5 days. Eight (62%) received antibiotics despite identification of CoV-HKU1. Infectious work-up in 1 patient who died did not reveal any other pathogen. In 2 (15%) CoV-HKU1-positive adults, the only viral coinfection detected was influenza A.

CONCLUSIONS

Coronavirus-HKU1 accounted for 1.6% of adult respiratory infections and should be considered in differential diagnosis of severe respiratory illnesses among adults.

Recurrent pneumonia among Japanese adults: disease burden and risk factors

BACKGROUND

In Japan and other societies with rapidly aging populations, recurrent pneumonia (RP) is a major clinical problem yet only limited information exists regarding the burden of this disease.

METHODS

A prospective study of adult pneumonia was conducted to investigate the incidence of RP and potential risk factors. From February 1, 2012 to January 31, 2013, patients aged ≥ 15 years who were diagnosed with pneumonia were prospectively enrolled in a representative community hospital located in central Japan. Patients were followed for one-year to evaluate the recurrence of pneumonia and characteristics associated with RP. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to compute adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and ascertain risk factors significantly associated with RP.

RESULTS

In total, 841 patients with a median age of 73 years (range 15-101 years) were enrolled totaling 1,048 person-years of observation with a median follow-up time of 475 days. A total of 137 patients had at least one recurrent episode with an incidence rate of 13.1 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval: 11.1-15.5). In multivariate analysis, a past history of pneumonia (aHR 1.95, 95% CI: 1.35-2.8), chronic pulmonary disease (aHR 1.86, 1.24-2.78) and inhaled corticosteroid usage (aHR 1.78, 1.12-2.84) and hypnotic/sedative medication usage (aHR 2.06, 1.28-3.31) were identified as independent risk factors for recurrent pneumonia, whereas angiotensin converting enzyme-inhibitors usage was associated with a reduction of the risk of RP (aHR 0.22, 0.05-0.91). The detection of P. aeruginosa was significantly associated with RP even after adjusting for chronic pulmonary diseases (aHR = 2.37).

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent pneumonia constitutes a considerable proportion of the pneumonia burden in Japan. A past history of pneumonia, chronic pulmonary disease, inhaled corticosteroid and hypnotic/sedative medication usage and detection of P. aeruginosa were identified as independent risk factors for recurrent pneumonia and special attention regarding the use of medications in this vulnerable population is needed to reduce the impact of this disease in aging populations.

Systematic Review and Quality Appraisal of Cost-Effectiveness Analyses of Pharmacologic Maintenance Treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Methodological Considerations and Recommendations

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a highly prevalent chronic lung disease with considerable clinical and socioeconomic impact. Pharmacologic maintenance drugs (such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids) play an important role in the treatment of COPD. The cost effectiveness of these treatments has been frequently assessed, but studies to date have largely neglected the impact of treatment sequence and the exact stage of disease in which the drugs are used in real life.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to systematically review recently published articles that reported the cost effectiveness of COPD maintenance treatments, with a focus on key findings, quality and methodological issues.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search in Embase, PubMed, the UK NHS Economic Evaluation Database (NHS-EED) and EURONHEED (European Network of Health Economics Evaluation Databases) and included all relevant articles published between 2011 and 2015 in either Dutch, English or German. Main study characteristics, methods and outcomes were extracted and critically assessed. The Quality of Health Economic Studies (QHES) instrument was used as basis for quality assessment, but additional items were also addressed.

RESULTS

The search identified 18 recent pharmacoeconomic analyses of COPD maintenance treatments. Papers reported the cost effectiveness of long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) monotherapy (n = 6), phosphodiesterase (PDE)-4 inhibitors (n = 4), long-acting beta agonist/inhaled corticosteroid (LABA/ICS) combinations (n = 4), LABA monotherapy (n = 2) and LABA/LAMA combinations (n = 2). All but two studies were funded by the manufacturer, and all studies indicated favourable cost effectiveness; however, the number of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained was small. Less than half of the studies reported a COPD-specific outcome in addition to a generic outcome (mostly QALYs). Exacerbation and mortality rates were found to be the main drivers of cost effectiveness. According to the QHES, the quality of the studies was generally sufficient, but additional assessment revealed that most studies poorly represented the cost effectiveness of real-life medication use.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of studies showed that pharmacologic COPD maintenance treatment is cost effective, but most studies poorly reflected real-life drug use. Consistent and COPD-specific methodology is recommended.

Initiation of triple therapy maintenance treatment among patients with COPD in the US

BACKGROUND

The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) recommends triple therapy (long-acting muscarinic receptor antagonists, long-acting beta-2 agonists, and inhaled corticosteroids) for patients with only the most severe COPD. Data on the proportion of COPD patients on triple therapy and their characteristics are sparse and dated. Objective 1 of this study was to estimate the proportion of all, and all treated, COPD patients receiving triple therapy. Objective 2 was to characterize those on triple therapy and assess the concordance of triple therapy use with GOLD guidelines.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study used claims from the IMS PharMetrics Plus database from 2009 to 2013. Cohort 1 was selected to assess Objective 1 only; descriptive analyses were conducted in Cohort 2 to answer Objective 2. A validated claims-based algorithm and severity and frequency of exacerbations were used as proxies for COPD severity.

RESULTS

Of all 199,678 patients with COPD in Cohort 1, 7.5% received triple therapy after diagnosis, and 25.5% of all treated patients received triple therapy. In Cohort 2, 30,493 COPD patients (mean age =64.7 years) who initiated triple therapy were identified. Using the claims-based algorithm, 34.5% of Cohort 2 patients were classified as having mild disease (GOLD 1), 40.8% moderate (GOLD 2), 22.5% severe (GOLD 3), and 2.3% very severe (GOLD 4). Using exacerbation severity and frequency, 60.6% of patients were classified as GOLD 1/2 and 39.4% as GOLD 3/4.

CONCLUSION

In this large US claims database study, one-quarter of all treated COPD patients received triple therapy. Although triple therapy is recommended for the most severe COPD patients, spirometry is infrequently assessed, and a majority of the patients who receive triple therapy may have only mild/moderate disease. Any potential overprescribing of triple therapy may lead to unnecessary costs to the patient and health care system.