Any Decrease in Lung Function is Associated With Worse Clinical Outcomes: Post Hoc Analysis of the IMPACT Interventional Trial

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Variables predicting clinical remission among adults with severe asthma treated with biologic agents

Summary

Background. Although biologic agents promise a short- to medium-term remission in asthma, it is unclear whether they can fundamentally alter disease course and achieve long-term remission. We aimed to investigate the clinical remission success of biologics in patients with severe asthma and the factors associated with remission. Methods. Adults followed-up due to severe asthma who were treated with mepolizumab or omalizumab were included in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were reviewed. Subjects with and without clinical remission at 12 and 36 months were identified. Comparisons between the groups were made with univariate and multivariable analyses. Results. Seventy-four patients were included in the study. The mean age of subjects was 51.85 (standard deviation: 11.43) years, and 50 (67.57%) were females. The 12- and 36-month remission rates were 72.97% and 51.79%, respectively. Patients with and without remission were similar in terms of age and gender distribution. FEV1% predicted (p = 0.009) and FEV1/FVC ratio (p = 0.039) were significantly higher in those with remission at 12 months compared to those without. FEV1 (p less than 0.001), FEV1% predicted (p less than 0.001) and FEV1/FVC ratio (p = 0.004) were significantly higher in those with remission at 36 months compared to those without. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that higher FEV1% predicted was the only factor independently associated with remission for both time points. Conclusions. Omalizumab and mepolizumab provide significant clinical remission rates in severe asthma. FEV1% predicted is a variable that can independently predict clinical remission among severe asthmatics receiving biologic agents.

Impact of Lung Function and Exacerbations on Health-Related Quality of Life in COPD Patients Within One Year: Real-World Analysis Based on Claims Data

PURPOSE

Real-world evidence on the impact of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and exacerbations on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is sparse especially with regard to GOLD ABCD groups. This study investigates how changes in FEV1 and exacerbations affect generic and disease-specific HRQoL in COPD patients over one year.

METHODS

Using German claims data and survey data, we classified 3016 COPD patients and analyzed their health status by GOLD groups AB and CD. HRQoL was measured with the disease-specific COPD assessment test (CAT) and the visual analog scale (VAS) from the generic Euro-Qol 5D-5L. We applied change score models to assess associations between changes in FEV1 (≥100 mL decrease/no change/≥100 mL increase) or the development of severe exacerbations with change in HRQoL.

RESULTS

FEV1 decrease was associated with a significant but not minimal important difference (MID) deterioration in disease-specific HRQoL (mean change [95% CI]: CAT +0.74 [0.15 to 1.33]), while no significant change was observed in the generic VAS. Experiencing at least one severe exacerbation also had a significant impact on CAT deterioration (+1.58 [0.52 to 2.64]), but again not on VAS. Here, GOLD groups AB showed not only a statistically but also a clinically relevant MID deterioration in CAT (+2.1 [0.88 to 3.32]). These particular patient groups were further characterized by a higher probability of being male, having a higher mMRC and Charlson index, and a lower probability of having higher FEV1 or BMI values.

CONCLUSION

FEV1 decline and the occurrence of ≥1 severe exacerbation are significantly associated with overall deterioration in disease-specific HRQoL. Preventing severe exacerbations particularly in patients without previous severe exacerbations (ABCD groups A and B) may help to stabilize the key patient-reported outcome HRQoL.

Pulmonary function after segmentectomy versus lobectomy in patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis

Objective

Segmentectomy is widely performed for early-stage lung cancer. However, the effects of segmentectomy versus lobectomy on pulmonary function remain unclear. We performed a meta-analysis with the aim of comparing segmentectomy and lobectomy in terms of preservation of pulmonary function in patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

We conducted a literature search of PubMed using the terms ‘pulmonary function’ AND ‘segmentectomy’ AND ‘lobectomy’. The primary outcomes of interest were the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1 as percent of predicted (%FEV1), change in FEV1 (Δ%FEV1), and the ratio of postoperative to preoperative FEV1.

Results

Thirteen studies comprising 2027 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included for analysis, including 787 patients in the segmentectomy group and 1240 patients in the lobectomy group. Patients in the segmentectomy group showed significantly better preservation of FEV1 and %FEV1 compared with the lobectomy group. The reduction in FEV1 after surgery was significantly less in the segmentectomy group compared with the lobectomy group, and Δ%FEV1 was significantly higher in the segmentectomy group than in the lobectomy group.

Conclusion

Segmentectomy results in better preservation of pulmonary function compared with lobectomy in patients with early-stage NSCLC.

Effect of external diaphragmatic pacing therapy on patients with chronic cor pulmonale: a randomized, controlled trial

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of external diaphragmatic pacing (EDP) on patients with chronic cor pulmonale (CCP).

Methods

Fifty patients with CCP were enrolled in Kashgar Prefecture Second People’s Hospital in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China from 2016 to 2017. The patients were randomized into a group that received anti-CCP therapy (negative control group) or a group that received additional EDP treatment (EDP group). We recorded and compared maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC, and the 6-minute walking test between the two groups on the first and tenth days of treatment.

Results

Ten days after treatment began, MIP, FVC, and the 6-minute walking test were significantly improved in both groups. Importantly, MIP and FVC were significantly higher in the EDP group compared with the control group on the tenth day.

Conclusion

In addition to treatment for CCP, these patients can obtain extra benefit by using EDP treatment.

Factors for the Variability of Three Acceptable Maximal Expiratory Flow-Volume Curves in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Background

Generally, the maximal expiratory flow–volume (MEFV) curve must be measured for the diagnosis and staging of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). As this test is effort dependent, international guidelines recommend that three acceptable trials are required for each test. However, no study has examined the magnitude and factors for the variability in parameters among three acceptable trials.

Methods

We evaluated the intra-individual variations in several parameters among three acceptable MEFV curves obtained at one-time point in patients with COPD (n = 28, stage 1; n = 36, stage 2; n = 21, stages 3–4). Next, the factors for such variations were examined using forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) and forced vital capacity (FVC).

Results

The averages of coefficient of variation (CV) for FEV₁ and FVC were 2.0% (range: 1.0–3.0%) and 1.6% (0.9–2.2%), respectively. Both parameters were significantly better than peak expiratory flow rate, forced expiratory flow at 50% of expired FVC, and forced expiratory flow at 75% of expired FVC (CVs: 5.0–6.9%). A higher spirometric stage was significantly associated with higher CVs for FVC and FEV_1, and older age was significantly correlated with a higher variation in FEV₁ alone. Furthermore, a significantly inverse association was observed between emphysema severity, and the CVs for FEV₁, but not that for FVC, regardless of spirometric stage.

Conclusion

Both FVC and FEV₁ are highly reproducible; nevertheless, older age, lower FEV₁ at baseline, and non-emphysema phenotype are factors for a higher variability in FEV₁ in patients with COPD.

Early-Life Height Attainment in Cystic Fibrosis Is Associated with Pulmonary Function at Age 6 Years

Rationale: In contrast to the well-described association between early-life weight for age, body mass index (BMI), and later lung disease in people with cystic fibrosis (CF), the relationship between height-for-age (HFA) percentiles and respiratory morbidity is not as well-studied. We hypothesized that changes in HFA in children with CF in the first 6 years of life would be associated with pulmonary function at the age of 6-7 years. Objectives: To determine if an association exists between changes in HFA in early life and pulmonary function in school-aged children with CF. Methods: We performed a retrospective longitudinal cohort study of children with CF followed in the CF Foundation Patient Registry who were born between 2003 and 2010, had CF diagnosed before the age of 2 years, and were followed through at least the age of 7 years. Changes in annualized HFA were classified into mutually exclusive categories. Multivariable analysis of covariance models were used to test for an association between the percent-predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) at the age of 6-7 years and height-trajectory categories. Results: There were 5,388 eligible children in the CF Foundation Patient Registry. The median (interquartile range) HFA at the age of 6-7 years was in the 39.5th (17.2th-64.9th) percentile. The mean (95% confidence interval) FEV₁% predicted at the age of 6-7 years was 95.6% (95.1-96.1%). In a multivariable regression model, the mean (95% confidence interval) FEV₁% predicted was higher for children with HFA that was always above the 50th percentile (97.8% [96.3-99.4%]) than for children whose height had been below the 50th percentile for at least 1 year and increased by ≥10 percentile points (95.1% [93.7-96.6%]), was stable (94.3% [92.8-95.7%]), or decreased by ≥10 percentile points (95.7% [94.2-97.3%]). The association between HFA categories and FEV₁% predicted was not affected by adding the mean annualized BMI percentile at the age of 6-7 years to the regression model. Among those with HFA that decreased by ≥10 percentile points, there was a correlation between the nadir annualized HFA percentile and the FEV₁% predicted at the age of 6-7 years. Conclusions: Children with CF with HFA that is always above the 50th percentile have the highest pulmonary function at the age of 6-7 years. Maintaining a BMI above the 50th percentile remains an important achievable goal for children with CF but is not the sole marker that should be examined in evaluating nutrition.

Prediction of Spirometric Indices Using Forced Oscillometric Indices in Patients with Asthma, COPD, and Interstitial Lung Disease

Background and Objective

Spirometry is sometimes difficult to perform in elderly patients and patients with cognitive impairment. Forced oscillometry (FOT) is a simple, noninvasive technique used for measuring respiratory impedance. The aim of this study was to develop regression equations to estimate vital capacity (VC), forced vital capacity (FVC), and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV_1.0) on the basis of FOT indices and to evaluate the accuracy of these equations in patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and interstitial lung disease (ILD).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively included data on 683 consecutive patients with asthma (388), COPD (128), or ILD (167) in this study. We generated regression equations for VC, FVC, and FEV_1.0 by multivariate linear regression analysis and used them to estimate the corresponding values. We determined whether the estimated data reflected spirometric indices.

Results

Actual and estimated VC, FVC, and FEV_1.0 values showed significant correlations (all r > 0.8 and P < 0.001) in all groups. Biases between the actual data and estimated data for VC, FVC, and FEV_1.0 in the asthma group were −0.073 L, −0.069 L, and 0.017 L, respectively. The corresponding values were −0.064 L, 0.027 L, and 0.069 L, respectively, in the COPD group and −0.040 L, −0.071 L, and −0.002 L, respectively, in the ILD group. The estimated data in the present study did not completely correspond to the actual data. In addition, sensitivity for an FEV_1.0/FVC ratio of <0.7 and the diagnostic accuracy for the classification of COPD grade using estimated data were low.

Conclusion

These results suggest that our method is not highly accurate. Further studies are needed to generate more accurate regression equations for estimating spirometric indices based on FOT measurements.

Efficacy and Safety of Once-Daily Inhaled Umeclidinium in Asian Patients with COPD: Results from a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

Purpose

Previous studies demonstrating efficacy and safety of once-daily umeclidinium (UMEC) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have included few Asian patients. This study evaluated efficacy and safety of UMEC 62.5 mcg versus placebo in Asian patients with COPD.

Patients and Methods

A Phase III, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study. Patients (aged ≥40 years with COPD, pre-, and post-albuterol forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV₁]/forced vital capacity ratio <0.70 and low risk of exacerbations) were randomized 2:1 to once-daily UMEC 62.5 mcg or placebo via the ELLIPTA inhaler for 24 weeks. Primary endpoint was change from baseline (CFB) in trough FEV₁ on Day 169. Secondary endpoints were weighted mean FEV₁ over 0–6 hrs post-dose on Day 1 and CFB in Transition Dyspnea Index (TDI) focal score on Day 168.

Results

A total of 306 patients were included in the modified intent-to-treat population (UMEC: 205; placebo: 101). UMEC versus placebo provided a statistically significant improvement in least squares (LS) mean trough FEV₁ between baseline and Day 169 (154 mL [95% confidence interval (CI): 113, 194]; p<0.001). A clinically meaningful difference of 125 mL in favor of UMEC (95% CI: 103, 147; p<0.001) was also seen in LS weighted mean FEV₁ 0–6 hrs post-dose on Day 1. A LS mean treatment difference in TDI focal score of 0.9 units in favor of UMEC was seen on Day 168 (95% CI: 0.3, 1.5; p=0.004). Incidence of on-treatment adverse events (AEs) was lower in the placebo (55%) versus UMEC arm (60%); non-fatal serious AEs, drug-related AEs, and AEs leading to withdrawal were similar with UMEC and placebo.

Conclusion

Once-daily UMEC 62.5 mcg resulted in statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in lung function and dyspnea, compared with placebo, in Asian patients with COPD, with no new safety concerns observed.

A New Bronchodilator Response Grading Strategy Identifies Distinct Patient Populations

Rationale: A positive bronchodilator response (BDR) according to American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) guidelines require both 200 ml and 12% increase in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) or forced vital capacity (FVC) after bronchodilator inhalation. This dual criterion is insensitive in those with high or low FEV1.Objectives: To establish BDR criteria with volume or percentage FEV1 change.Methods: The largest FEV1 and FVC were identified from three pre- and three post-bronchodilator maneuvers in COPDGene (Genetic Epidemiology of COPD) participants. A total of 7,741 individuals with coefficient of variation less than 15% for both FEV1 and FVC formed bronchodilator categories of FEV1 response: negative (≤0.00% or ≤0.00 L), minimal (>0.00% to ≤9.00% or >0.00 L to ≤0.09 L), mild (>9.00% to ≤16.00% or >0.09 L to ≤0.16 L), moderate (>16.00% to ≤26.00% or >0.16 L to ≤0.26 L), and marked (>26.00% or >0.26 L). These response size categories are based on empirical limits considering average FEV1 increase of approximately 160 ml and the clinically important difference for FEV1. To compare flow and volume response characteristics, BDR-FEV1 category assignments were applied for the BDR-FVC response.Results: Twenty percent met mild and 31% met moderate or marked BDR-FEV1 criteria, whereas 12% met mild and 33% met moderate or marked BDR-FVC criteria. In contrast, only 20.6% met ATS/ERS positive criteria. Compared with the negative BDR-FEV1 category, the minimal, mild, moderate, and marked BDR-FEV1 categories were associated with greater 6-minute-walk distance and lower St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire and modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale scores. Compared with negative BDR, moderate and marked BDR-FEV1 categories were associated with fewer exacerbations, and minimal BDR was associated with lower computed tomography airway wall thickness. Compared with the negative category, all BDR-FVC categories were associated with increasing emphysema percentage and gas trapping percentage. Moderate and marked BDR-FVC categories were associated with higher St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire scores but fewer exacerbations and lower dyspnea scores.Conclusions: BDR grading by FEV1 volume or percentage response identified subjects otherwise missed by ATS/ERS criteria. BDR grades were associated with functional exercise performance, quality of life, exacerbation frequency, dyspnea, and radiological airway measures. BDR grades in FEV1 and FVC indicate different clinical and radiological characteristics.

Improvements in Lung Function with Nebulized Revefenacin in the Treatment of Patients with Moderate to Very Severe COPD: Results from Two Replicate Phase III Clinical Trials

Background

Revefenacin, a novel, lung-selective, long-acting muscarinic antagonist, has been developed for nebulized therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We present the results of replicate Phase III efficacy and safety studies of revefenacin in patients with moderate to very severe COPD.

Methods

In 2 double-blind, parallel-group studies, (Study 0126 and Study 0127), patients ≥ 40 years old were randomized to revefenacin 88 μg, revefenacin 175 μg or placebo administered once daily by standard jet nebulizer for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was 24-hour trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) on day 85. Secondary efficacy endpoints included overall treatment effect (OTE) on trough FEV₁ and peak FEV₁ (0-2 hours after first dose). Safety assessments included treatment-emergent adverse events.

Results

At day 85, revefenacin 88 µg and 175 µg improved trough FEV₁ versus placebo in Study 0126 (by 79 mL [p=0.0003] and 146 mL [p<0.0001]) and Study 0127 (by 160 mL and 147 mL; both p<0.0001). Compared with placebo, pooled data of revefenacin 88 µg and 175 µg increased OTE trough FEV₁ by 115 mL and 142 mL (both p<0.001) and increased peak FEV₁ by 127 mL and 129 mL (both p<0.0001). Revefenacin 175 µg demonstrated greater improvements in FEV₁ in concomitant long-acting beta2-agonist patients and in more severe patients than revefenacin 88 µg. Adverse events were minor.

Conclusion

Revefenacin, administered once daily for 12 weeks to patients with moderate to very severe COPD, demonstrated clinically significant improvements in trough FEV₁ and OTE FEV₁. Revefenacin was generally well tolerated with no major safety concerns.

Factors Associated with Lung Function Recovery at the First Year after Lung Transplantation

PURPOSE

Post-operative pulmonary function is an important prognostic factor for lung transplantation. The purpose of this study was to identify factors affecting recovery of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) at the first year after lung transplantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of lung transplantation patients between October 2012 and June 2016. Patients who survived for longer than one year and who underwent pulmonary function test at the first year of lung transplantation were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they recovered to a normal range of FEV1 (FEV1 ≥80% of predicted value vs. <80%). We compared the two groups and analyzed factors associated with lung function recovery.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were enrolled in this study: 28 patients (48%) recovered to a FEV1 ≥80% of the predicted value, whereas 30 patients (52%) did not. Younger recipients [odds ratio (OR), 0.92; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.87-0.98; p=0.010], longer duration of mechanical ventilator use after surgery (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.03-1.26; p=0.015), and high-grade primary graft dysfunction (OR, 8.08; 95% CI, 1.67-39.18; p=0.009) were identified as independent risk factors associated with a lack of full recovery of lung function at 1 year after lung transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Immediate postoperative status may be associated with recovery of lung function after lung transplantation.

Early Changes in eDiary COPD Symptoms Predict Clinically Relevant Treatment Response at 12 Weeks: Analysis from the CRYSTAL Study

Early detection of treatment response is important in the long-term treatment and management of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis evaluated whether early improvement in symptoms, recorded in the first 7 or 14 days via an electronic diary (eDiary) compared with baseline, can predict clinically meaningful treatment responders at 12 weeks. CRYSTAL was a 12-week, randomized, open-label study that demonstrated the increased effectiveness of indacaterol/glycopyrronium (IND/GLY) or glycopyrronium (GLY), after a direct switch from on-going baseline therapies, in patients with symptomatic COPD and moderate airflow obstruction. The co-primary endpoints were trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) and transition dyspnea index (TDI) at Week 12. Patients' symptom status was recorded daily in an eDiary. Of 4,389 patients randomized, 3,936 and 3,855 reported symptoms on Days 7 and 14, respectively. Patients who reported an early decrease in symptoms on Day 7 or 14 were more likely to achieve the minimal clinically important difference of ≥100 mL in trough FEV₁ or ≥ 1 point in TDI at Week 12. Using stepwise multivariate regression models we identified as best predictors of FEV₁ responders the decrease in wheeze on Day 7, and nighttime symptoms and wheeze on Day 14; best predictors of TDI responders were decrease in nighttime symptoms and wheeze on Day 7, and nighttime symptoms, sputum and wheeze on Day 14. Early symptom improvement at Day 7 or 14, especially wheeze and nighttime symptoms, may identify patients with clinically important improvement in lung function and dyspnea at Week 12.

Anxiety and depression among dairy farmers: the impact of COPD

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and farming are two conditions that have been associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression. Dairy farming is an independent risk factor for COPD.

Objective

To test the hypotheses that the prevalence of anxiety and/or depression is higher in dairy farmers with COPD than in farmers without COPD, and higher in dairy farmers with COPD than in non-farmers with COPD.

Methods

Anxiety and depression were evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale in 100 dairy farmers with COPD (DF-COPD), 98 dairy farmers without COPD (DF-controls), 85 non-farming patients with COPD (NF-COPD) and 89 non-farming subjects without COPD (NF-controls), all identified by screening in the Franche-Comté region of France. Anxiety and depression were considered present when the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score was ≥8. COPD was defined by a post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity ratio <0.7.

Results

The crude prevalence of anxiety did not differ between the four groups, ranging from 36% in NF-controls to 47% in NF-COPD (p=0.15 between groups). Similarly, the prevalence of depression did not differ significantly between the four groups (p=0.16 between groups). In dairy farmers (n=198), the only factors associated with anxiety were quality of life and current smoking. Depression in dairy farmers was associated with airflow limitation (lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second and COPD grade 2 or more) as well as with some COPD-related features (dyspnea severity, current smoking, and poorer quality of life). In non-farmers, both anxiety and depression were associated with airflow limitation and COPD-related features.

Conclusion

In our population, the prevalence of anxiety and/or depression was similar in dairy farmers with and without COPD and in non-farmers with COPD. Nevertheless, the degree of airway obstruction and some COPD-related features were associated with depression among dairy farmers, whereas these factors were not associated with anxiety.

Use of the forced-oscillation technique to estimate spirometry values

PURPOSE

Spirometry is sometimes difficult to perform in elderly patients and in those with severe respiratory distress. The forced-oscillation technique (FOT) is a simple and noninvasive method of measuring respiratory impedance. The aim of this study was to determine if FOT data reflect spirometric indices.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients underwent both FOT and spirometry procedures prior to inclusion in development (n=1,089) and validation (n=552) studies. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to identify FOT parameters predictive of vital capacity (VC), forced VC (FVC), and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁). A regression equation was used to calculate estimated VC, FVC, and FEV₁. We then determined whether the estimated data reflected spirometric indices. Agreement between actual and estimated spirometry data was assessed by Bland-Altman analysis.

RESULTS

Significant correlations were observed between actual and estimated VC, FVC, and FEV₁ values (all r>0.8 and P<0.001). These results were deemed robust by a separate validation study (all r>0.8 and P<0.001). Bias between the actual data and estimated data for VC, FVC, and FEV₁ in the development study was 0.007 L (95% limits of agreement [LOA] 0.907 and -0.893 L), -0.064 L (95% LOA 0.843 and -0.971 L), and -0.039 L (95% LOA 0.735 and -0.814 L), respectively. On the other hand, bias between the actual data and estimated data for VC, FVC, and FEV₁ in the validation study was -0.201 L (95% LOA 0.62 and -1.022 L), -0.262 L (95% LOA 0.582 and -1.106 L), and -0.174 L (95% LOA 0.576 and -0.923 L), respectively, suggesting that the estimated data in the validation study did not have high accuracy.

CONCLUSION

Further studies are needed to generate more accurate regression equations for spirometric indices based on FOT measurements.

Long-term effects of beta-blocker use on lung function in Japanese patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BACKGROUND

Some recent studies have suggested that beta-blocker use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with a reduction in the frequency of acute exacerbations. However, the long-term effects of beta-blocker use on lung function of COPD patients have hardly been evaluated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 31 Japanese COPD patients taking beta-blockers for >1 year and 72 patients not taking them. The association between beta-blocker use and the annual change in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) was assessed.

RESULTS

At baseline, patient demographic characteristics were as follows: 97 males (mean age 67.0±8.2 years); 32 current smokers; and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung disease (GOLD) stages I: n=26, II: n=52, III: n=19, and IV: n=6. Patients taking beta-blockers exhibited a significantly lower forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1, and %FVC, and a more advanced GOLD stage. The mean duration of beta-blocker administration was 2.8±1.7 years. There were no differences in the annual change in FEV1 between patients who did and did not use beta-blockers (-7.6±93.5 mL/year vs -4.7±118.9 mL/year, P=0.671). After controlling for relevant confounders in multivariate analyses, it was found that beta-blocker use was not significantly associated with the annual decline in FEV1 (β=-0.019; 95% confidence interval: -0.073 to 0.036; P=0.503).

CONCLUSION

Long-term beta-blocker use in Japanese COPD patients might not affect the FEV1, one of the most important parameters of lung function in COPD patients.

Baseline Severity as Predictor of Change in St George's Respiratory Questionnaire Scores in Trials of Long-acting Bronchodilators with COPD Patients

Background: In trials oflong-acting bronchodilators, health status is an important trial outcome, however the influence of baseline severity on response measured by St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) is not known. We have compared SGRQ changes between patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) of mild-moderate severity or dyspnea (Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung disease [GOLD] grades 1 and 2; modified Medical Research Council [mMRC] grades 1 and 2) to those with severe-very severe severity or dyspnea (GOLD grades 3 and 4; mMRC grades 3 and 4). Methods: Combined individual patient data from the COPD Biomarkers Qualification Consortium database (trials of long-acting bronchodilators) were used comprising of patients from short-term (≤1-year duration; n=10802) and medium-term (2-4 years' duration; n=8963) studies. A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the effects of baseline severity (GOLD/mMRC) on SGRQ response to treatment. All treatment arms were combined. Results: In short-term studies, milder patients showed a greater response than those with more severe disease in terms of GOLD grade (partial Eta² = 0.03, p < 0.0001) and mMRC grade (partial Eta² = 0.05, p < 0.0001). Similar results were seen in the medium-term studies (partial Eta² = 0.02, p < 0.0001; mMRC: partial Eta² = 0.05, p < 0.0001,). Conclusions: Patients with less severe airflow limitation and less severe dyspnea showed larger improvements in SGRQ score than more severely obstructed or dyspneic patients. Although these severity influences are small (2%-5% of the variance in SGRQ score), they do suggest that pre-specified separate analyses are warranted to test for differences in response, based on baseline severity.

Responder Analyses for Treatment Effects in COPD Using the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire

Background: Patient-reported outcomes data in clinical trials are usually reported as mean values, interpreted in comparison to a minimum clinically important difference (MCID) and ignoring the possibility of a sizable proportion of patients experiencing a worthwhile benefit when the majority did not. This analysis tested the reliability of calculated responder rates (from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD] patients) with the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) using a range of responder cut-points above and below the MCID (4 units). Methods: Individual patient data (i.e., data from long-acting bronchodilator [LAB] and inhaled corticosteroids [ICS]/long-acting beta2-agonist [LABA] randomized clinical studies) in the COPD Biomarker Qualification Consortium database were used: short-term (≤1-year duration; 14,814 patients,) and medium-term (2-4 years; 12,043 patients). Responder rates versus placebo across SGRQ score change thresholds ranging from -1.5 to -8.0 were tested; differences were expressed as the odds ratio (OR) of a patient exceeding the threshold versus no change or deterioration. Results: The ORs measuring benefit of active treatment were similar across thresholds in short-term studies (LAB, ORs 1.40-1.42; LABA/ICS, 1.50-1.56) and medium-term LAB studies (ORs 1.34-1.43), whereas ORs in medium-term studies with LABA/ICS intervention showed a trend for higher response rates at higher values of threshold cut-points (1.64-1.79). In short-term studies, different thresholds had little effect on the OR between active drugs versus a trend for lower ORs with lower thresholds in medium-term studies. Conclusions: The OR for a treatment effect compared with placebo appears consistent across a range of responder cut-points. In medium-term trials, the treatment difference between active drugs suggests that use of a lower threshold would not increase the odds of observing a measured treatment difference.

Prevention of COPD exacerbation by lysozyme: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

Background/aim

Lysozyme (mucopeptide N-acetyl-muramyl hydrolase) is widely used as a mucolytic and anti-inflammatory agent in Japan. We evaluated the effects of long-term lysozyme administration on COPD exacerbation.

Methods

In a 1-year, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel trial, patients with moderate-to-severe COPD and one or more episodes of COPD exacerbation in the previous year before enrollment were selected. Lysozyme (270 mg) or placebo was administered orally for 52 weeks as an add-on to the standard therapies such as bronchodilators. COPD exacerbation, pulmonary function, and COPD assessment test scores were analyzed. An exacerbation was defined as worsening of more than one symptom of COPD (cough, sputum volume, purulent sputum, or breathlessness) leading to a change in medication. The primary endpoint was exacerbation rate.

Results

A total of 408 patients were randomly assigned to the lysozyme and placebo groups. The baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. The exacerbation rate was not significantly different between the two groups (1.4 vs 1.2; P=0.292, Poisson regression). However, a subgroup analysis showed that lysozyme might reduce exacerbation rate in patients with airway-dominant phenotype (1.2 vs 1.6). Moreover, the median time to first exacerbation was longer in patients with airway-dominant phenotype in the lysozyme group than that in the placebo group. The levels of improvement in forced expiratory volume in 1 second and COPD assessment test scores were not statistically different between the groups, but were always greater in the lysozyme group than in the placebo group over the 52 weeks of the study.

Conclusion

The effects of using lysozyme as an add-on to standard COPD therapy were not significantly different compared with placebo and were insufficient to prevent COPD exacerbation.

Early Life Growth Trajectories in Cystic Fibrosis are Associated with Pulmonary Function at Age 6 Years

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether severity of lung disease at age 6 years is associated with changes in nutritional status before age 6 within individual children with cystic fibrosis (CF).

STUDY DESIGN

Children with CF born between 1994 and 2005 and followed in the CF Foundation Patient Registry from age ≤2 through 7 years were assessed according to changes in annualized weight-for-length (WFL) percentiles between ages 0 and 2 years and body mass index (BMI) percentiles between ages 2 and 6 years. The association between growth trajectories before age 6 and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)% predicted at age 6-7 years was evaluated using multivariable linear regression.

RESULTS

A total of 6805 subjects met inclusion criteria. Children with annualized WFL-BMI always >50th percentile (N = 1323 [19%]) had the highest adjusted mean (95% CI) FEV1 at 6-7 years (101.8 [100.1, 103.5]). FEV1 at 6-7 years for children whose WFL-BMI increased >10 percentile points by age 6 years was 98.3 (96.6, 100.0). This was statistically significantly higher than FEV1 for children whose WFL-BMI was stable (94.4 [92.6, 96.2]) or decreased >10 percentile points (92.9 [91.1, 94.8]). Among children whose WFL-BMI increased >10 percentile points, achieving and maintaining WFL-BMI >50th percentile at younger ages was associated with significantly higher FEV1 at 6-7 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Within-patient changes in nutritional status in the first 6 years of life are significantly associated with FEV1 at age 6-7 years. The establishment of a clear relationship between early childhood growth measurements and later lung function suggests that early nutritional interventions may impact on eventual lung health.

Survey to determine the efficacy and safety of guideline-based pharmacological therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients not previously receiving maintenance treatment

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential beneficial effects of guideline-based pharmacological therapy on pulmonary function and quality of life (QOL) in Japanese chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients without prior treatment.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Multicenter survey, open-label study of 49 Japanese COPD patients aged ≥ 40 years; outpatients with >10 pack years of smoking history; ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) < 70%; predicted FEV1 < 80%; treated with bronchodilators and/or inhaled corticosteroids as maintenance therapy until week 48.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary endpoint was change in pulmonary function (trough FEV1, trough FVC); secondary endpoints were QOL and physical activity at 48 weeks after initiation of therapy.

RESULTS

Airway reversibility was confirmed in untreated patients. Significant changes over time were not observed for FEV1 and FVC, indicating lung function at initiation of treatment was maintained during the observation period. COPD assessment test scores showed statistical and clinical improvements. Cough, sputum, breathlessness, and shortness of breath were significantly improved.

CONCLUSIONS

Lung function and QOL of untreated Japanese COPD patients improved and improvements were maintained by performing a therapeutic intervention that conformed to published guidelines.

Systematic Review of the Association Between Laboratory- and Field-Based Exercise Tests and Lung Function in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Introduction: Typical symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) include breathlessness and reduced exercise capacity. Several laboratory- and field-based exercise tests are used to assess the exercise capacity of patients with COPD. It is unclear whether these exercise tests reflect the spirometric measures recommended for diagnosis of COPD. We therefore aimed to systematically assess the correlation between these exercise tests and common measures of lung function. Methods: A search of Embase™, MEDLINE^® and The Cochrane Library identified primary publications in English that reported data on the correlations (Pearson's r or Spearman's rho) between the outcomes of exercise tests and the physiological measures of interest: forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁), forced vital capacity, inspiratory capacity and arterial oxygen saturation. We included studies reporting on the following exercise tests: 6- and 12-minute walk tests (6MWT and 12 MWT), incremental and endurance shuttle walk tests, incremental and endurance cycle ergometer tests, and treadmill tests. Results: Of 1781 articles screened, 45 were ultimately deemed eligible for inclusion in this review. The most commonly reported lung function variable was FEV₁ (reported by 39 studies); the most commonly reported exercise test was the 6-minute walk test (reported by 24 studies). FEV₁ appears to correlate moderately-to-strongly with 6MWT and 12MWT; and moderately-to-very strongly with incremental cycle ergometer tests (ICET); evidence for other exercise tests was limited. Conclusion: There is evidence that 6MWT, 12MWT and ICET correlate with FEV₁ to some degree; - evidence for associations of other exercise tests with measures of lung function in patients with COPD is limited. Clinicians must consider this when deciding to use these tests. Further comparisons of these tests must be made in order to assess which physiological and hemodynamic characteristics they reflect in patients with COPD.

Differential changes in quality of life components over 5 years in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to examine the longitudinal change in quality of life components of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

METHODS

In the Hokkaido COPD Cohort Study, 261 subjects were appropriately treated and followed over 5 years with a 74% follow-up rate at the end. The longitudinal changes in St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores were annually evaluated with forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1). The subjects were classified into the rapid decliners, slow decliners, and sustainers based on ΔFEV1/year.

RESULTS

The activity component of SGRQ generally deteriorated over time, and its annual decline was the greatest in the rapid decliners (<25th percentile). In contrast, the symptom component improved significantly year by year in the sustainers (>75 percentile), and it did not deteriorate even in the rapid decliners. Of the baseline data, predictors for worsening of the activity component were older age and lower body mass index. Larger reversibility was related to symptom component improvement. Of the follow-up data, ΔFEV1/year was the best predictor for worsening of the components of SGRQ. Continuous smoking was another factor for worsening of the activity component. For the symptom component, a history of exacerbation by admission definition was the determinant of its deterioration, whereas use of beta agonists was related to improvement.

CONCLUSION

The longitudinal changes of quality of life and their determinants are markedly different and independent between its components. The activity component of SGRQ generally deteriorated over years, while the symptom component rather improved in some patients with COPD under appropriate treatment.

Multicenter study of pectus excavatum, final report: complications, static/exercise pulmonary function, and anatomic outcomes

BACKGROUND

A multicenter study of pectus excavatum was described previously. This report presents our final results.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients treated surgically at 11 centers were followed prospectively. Each underwent a preoperative evaluation with CT scan, pulmonary function tests, and body image survey. Data were collected about associated conditions, complications, and perioperative pain. One year after treatment, patients underwent repeat chest CT scan, pulmonary function tests, and body image survey. A subset of 50 underwent exercise pulmonary function testing.

RESULTS

Of 327 patients, 284 underwent Nuss procedure and 43 underwent open procedure without mortality. Of 182 patients with complete follow-up (56%), 18% had late complications, similarly distributed, including substernal bar displacement in 7% and wound infection in 2%. Mean initial CT scan index of 4.4 improved to 3.0 post operation (severe >3.2, normal = 2.5). Computed tomography index improved at the deepest point (xiphoid) and also upper and middle sternum. Pulmonary function tests improved (forced vital capacity from 88% to 93%, forced expiratory volume in 1 second from 87% to 90%, and total lung capacity from 94% to 100% of predicted (p < 0.001 for each). VO2 max during peak exercise increased by 10.1% (p = 0.015) and O2 pulse by 19% (p = 0.007) in 20 subjects who completed both pre- and postoperative exercise tests.

CONCLUSIONS

There is significant improvement in lung function at rest and in VO2 max and O2 pulse after surgical correction of pectus excavatum, with CT index >3.2. Operative correction significantly reduces CT index and markedly improves the shape of the entire chest, and can be performed safely in a variety of centers.

Vibration response imaging versus perfusion scan in lung cancer surgery evaluation

OBJECTIVE

Ventilation/perfusion scan is a standard procedure in high-risk surgical patients to predict pulmonary function after surgery. Vibration response imaging is a technique that could be used in these patients. The objective of our study was to compare this imaging technique with the usual scanning technique for predicting postoperative forced expiratory volume.

METHODS

We assessed 48 patients with lung cancer who were candidates for lung resection. Forced spirometry, vibration response imaging, and ventilation/perfusion scan were performed in patients before surgery, and spirometry was performed after intervention.

RESULTS

We included 48 patients (43 men; mean age, 64 years) undergoing lung cancer surgery (32 lobectomies/16 pneumonectomies). On comparison of both techniques, for pneumonectomy, we found a concordance of 0.84 (95% confidence interval, 0.76-0.92) and Bland-Altman limits of agreement of -0.33 to +0.45, with an average difference of 0.064. By comparing postoperative spirometry with vibration response imaging, we found a concordance of 0.66 (95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.93) and Bland-Altman limits of agreement of -0.60 to +0.33, with an average difference of -0.13.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2 techniques presented good concordance values. Vibration response imaging shows non-negligible confidence intervals. Vibration response imaging may be useful in preoperative algorithms in patients before lung cancer surgery.

COPD and gender differences: an update

Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) is one of the most prevalent health conditions, and a major cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. Once thought of primarily as a disease of men, COPD is now known to be increasingly prevalent among women. Although increasing tobacco consumption among women during the past several decades might explain some of this increase, the relationship may be more complex, including factors such as differential susceptibility to tobacco, anatomic and hormonal differences, behavioral differences, and differences in response to available therapeutic modalities. Moreover, women with COPD may present differently, may have a different pattern of comorbidities, and may have a better survival after acute exacerbations. Care providers continue to have a gender bias that may affect both diagnosis and treatment. Future work should focus on factors that lead to gender differences in COPD as well as gender-specific treatment strategies.

Diet and vitamin D as risk factors for lung impairment and COPD

Epidemiologic and observational studies have shown an association between increased intakes of certain micronutrients and higher levels of lung function and health. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys of the U.S. population have demonstrated repeatedly that increased intakes or serum levels of some micronutrients, including the vitamins E, D, C, and A, and carotenes are associated positively with forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1). These findings are complemented by other observational studies, including the MORGEN study as well as the Seven Countries Study, both of which found micronutrient status had positive correlations with pulmonary function. In addition, epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that dietary intake patterns with increased intakes of fruit, vegetables, fish, vitamin E, and whole grains have been associated with a decreased development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in smokers and nonsmokers, higher levels of FEV1, and decreased long-term COPD mortality. Diets high in refined food have been associated with accelerated longitudinal decline in FEV1 over 5 years. Taken together, these results suggest that micronutrient status may impact lung function, and that nutrition interventions could be a useful tool in a public health campaign aimed at the prevention of lung disease. Future research should focus on the effect of nutrition interventions on the natural history of lung disease.

Considerations and pitfalls in phenotyping and reclassification of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

As the clinical and research focus of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) evolves from regarding obstructive lung disease as a single disease entity to recognizing the complexity of disease expression, the importance of COPD phenotyping rises to the forefront. The reclassification of COPD holds both prognostic and therapeutic implications but does not come without issues that may complicate classification efforts. In this review, we discuss the significance of refining the definition of the term phenotype, consider the impact of variations in cohort severity and attribute mix, account for the contrast of longitudinal vs cross-sectional cohort analysis, recognize the differing criteria used to define disease traits along with the nuances of combining cohorts, and identify the interaction of covariates as we advance in the field of COPD phenotyping.

Effect of phrenic nerve palsy on early postoperative lung function after pneumonectomy: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

The issue of phrenic nerve preservation during pneumonectomy is still an unanswered question. So far, its direct effect on immediate postoperative pulmonary lung function has never been evaluated in a prospective trial.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective crossover study including 10 patients undergoing pneumonectomy for lung cancer between July 2011 and July 2012. After written informed consent, all consecutive patients who agreed to take part in the study and in whom preservation of the phrenic nerve during operation was possible, were included in the study. Upon completion of lung resection, a catheter was placed in the proximal paraphrenic tissue on the pericardial surface. After an initial phase of recovery of 5 days all patients underwent ultrasonographic assessment of diaphragmatic motion followed by lung function testing with and without induced phrenic nerve palsy. The controlled, temporary paralysis of the ipsilateral hemidiaphragm was achieved by local administration of lidocaine 1% at a rate of 3 mL/h (30 mg/h) via the above-mentioned catheter.

RESULTS

Temporary phrenic nerve palsy was accomplished in all but 1 patient with suspected catheter dislocation. Spirometry showed a significant decrease in dynamic lung volumes (forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity; p < 0.05) with the paralyzed hemidiaphragm. Blood oxygen saturation levels did not change significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that phrenic nerve palsy causes a significant impairment of dynamic lung volumes during the early postoperative period after pneumonectomy. Therefore, in these already compromised patients, intraoperative phrenic nerve injury should be avoided whenever possible.

Pulmonary function tests overestimate chronic pulmonary disease in patients with severe aortic stenosis

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary dysfunction is an important risk factor for postoperative complications after cardiac surgery, and severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is considered a relative contraindication to aortic valve replacement. Pulmonary function tests may mistakenly diagnose patients as having COPD, when in fact they have pulmonary dysfunction due to heart failure that potentially will improve with valve replacement.

METHODS

Between January 2009 and July 2011, 214 consecutive patients underwent pulmonary function testing as part of their preoperative screening. Based on the testing, 143 patients were identified as having COPD (52 mild, 42 moderate, and 49 severe), according to The Society of Thoracic Surgery definition. A total of 71 patients had follow-up tests performed at 6 to 12 months postprocedure.

RESULTS

A recent smoking history was present in 55 of 214 (25.7%) patients. Aortic valve replacement was performed in 13.6% (29 of 214) of patients by a conventional surgical approach, in 39.3% (84 of 214) by a transfemoral approach, and in 47.2% (101 of 214) by a transapical approach. Mortality was not significantly different in patients with COPD (12 of 71, 16.9%) compared with patients without COPD (37 of 143, 25.9%), p = 0.141. Logistic regression analyses failed to identify preoperative COPD severity category (p = 0.332) as a predictor for mortality. Comparison of pre- and postprocedure tests revealed that 42% (30 of 71) of patients with COPD showed improvement of one COPD severity category or more, including 40% (12 of 30) of patients in the mild group, 43% (9 of 21) of patients in the moderate group, and 45% (9 of 20) of patients in the severe category.

CONCLUSIONS

Abnormal pulmonary function improves in a significant number of patients with severe aortic stenosis after valve replacement.

Physical and psychosocial factors associated with physical activity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

OBJECTIVES

To assess physical activity and sitting time in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and to investigate which physical and psychosocial factors are associated with physical activity and sitting time.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Patients were recruited at outpatient clinics of general hospitals and from general practitioners.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients (N=113) with mild to very severe COPD.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Physical activity and sitting time were measured with a triaxial accelerometer (24h/d).

RESULTS

Mean locomotion time per 24 hours was 6.8% (range, 0.7%-20.4%). Elevated physical activity was independently associated with higher self-efficacy, higher functional exercise capacity, and lower lung hyperinflation. Decreased physical activity was strongest in more severe stages of COPD, in which the patients were mainly limited by physical disease-specific factors (higher lung hyperinflation, worse dyspnea severity, worse leg muscle function, and oxygen use). In less severe patients, physical activity was independently associated with more generic factors (higher self-efficacy and the spring/summer season). Sitting time did not differ between severity stages, and longer sitting time in the total group was independently associated with more positive perception of treatment control, less autonomous motivation to exercise, not using sleep medication, and oxygen use.

CONCLUSIONS

Both physical and psychosocial factors were associated with physical activity in patients with COPD. The factors associated with physical activity differed between disease severity stages, raising the question of whether physical activity enhancement programs should differ as well. Sitting time should be investigated further.

A clinical risk model for the evaluation of bronchopleural fistula in non-small cell lung cancer after pneumonectomy

BACKGROUND

There are no reliable risk factors to predict bronchopleural fistula (BPF) formation in patients undergoing pneumonectomy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study aims to create a validated clinical model based on the risk factors for BPF after pneumonectomy. The model to estimate the risk of BPF may help select patients for intervention therapy to reduce the rate of BPF after pneumonectomy.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis included 684 patients with NSCLC who underwent pneumonectomy at our institution from 1995 to 2012. The rates of BPF were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the independent risk factors for the BPF and based on which a clinical model for the prediction of the incidence of BPF was formed.

RESULTS

The incidence of BPF was 4.4% (30 of 684 patients). Three factors were independently associated with BPF after pneumonectomy for NSCLC: neoadjuvant therapy (hazard ratio, 2.479), diabetes mellitus (hazard ratio, 1.061), and age 70 years or older (hazard ratio, 1.175). A scoring system for BPF was developed by assigning 2 points for a major risk factor (neoadjuvant therapy) and 1 point for each minor risk factor (diabetes mellitus and age ≥ 70 years). The 684 patients were divided into a low-risk group (score, 0 to 1), moderate-risk group (score, 2), and high-risk group (score, ≥ 3), with respective incidences of early BPF after pneumonectomy of 2.4%, 18.2%, and 58.3%

CONCLUSIONS

This model, based on readily available clinical characteristics, can estimate the risk of BPF after pneumonectomy in the NSCLC patients, independent of early BPF and late BPF classifications. This model could be used to select patients for intervention therapy (parenteral alimentation, control of blood glucose level, oxygen therapy, and strengthening the antibiotic treatment) if validated in independent data sets.

Morbidities of lung cancer surgery in obese patients

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a risk factor for increased perioperative morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. There have been limited studies to correlate the morbidity of lung cancer resection with obesity.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of patients who underwent surgical resection for lung cancer at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, from 2006 to 2010. Data on patient demographics, weight, pathological findings, and hospital course were abstracted after appropriate institutional review board approval. Perioperative morbidity was defined as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, respiratory failure, pulmonary embolism, or any medical complications arising within 30 days after surgery. The Fisher exact test was used to test the association between body mass index (BMI) and perioperative morbidities.

RESULTS

Between 2006 and 2010, 320 lung resections were performed for lung cancer. The median age was 67 (interquartile range, 59-75) years, and 185 (57.8%) were females. A total of 121 (37.8%) of patients had a BMI lower than 25, and 199 (62.18%) patients had a BMI of 25 or higher. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.8% (n = 6) in the whole group; only 2 of these patients had a BMI of 25 or higher. Perioperative morbidity occurred in 28 (23.14%) of patients with a normal BMI and in 47 (23.61%) of patients with a BMI of 25 or higher (P = .54). Specific morbidities encountered by patients with normal versus BMI of 25 or higher were as follows: atrial fibrillation, 11 (9.09%) versus 24 (12.06%) (P = .46); pulmonary embolism, 1 (0.83%) versus 3 (1.51%) (P = 1.0); congestive heart failure, 2 (1.65%) versus 2 (1.01%) (P = .63); renal failure, 4 (3.3%) versus 2 (1.0%) (P = .29); respiratory failure, 12 (9.92%) versus 17 (8.54%) (P = .69); and acute respiratory distress syndrome, 2 (1.65%) versus 1 (0.50%) (P = .55). The median hospital stay was 5 days in the lower BMI group and 4 days in the BMI of 25 or higher group (P = .52).

CONCLUSIONS

Overweight and normal weight patients do not differ significantly in rates of perioperative morbidities, 30-day mortality, and length of stay. Our study indicates that potential curative surgical resections can be offered to even significantly overweight patients.

Effects of exercise rehab on male asthmatic patients: aerobic verses rebound training

BACKGROUND

There are some auspicious records on applying aerobic exercise for asthmatic patients. Recently, it is suggested that rebound exercise might even increase the gains. This study was designed to compare the effects of rebound therapy to aerobic training in male asthmatic patients.

METHODS

Sample included 37 male asthmatic patients (20-40 years) from the same respiratory clinic. After signing the informed consent, subjects volunteered to take part in control, rebound, or aerobic groups. There was no change in the routine medical treatment of patients. Supervised exercise programs continued for 8 weeks, consisting of two sessions of 45 to 60 minutes per week. Criteria measures were assessed pre- and post exercise program. Peak exercise capacity (VO2peak) was estimated by modified Bruce protocol, Forced vital capacity (FVC), Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and FEV1% were measured by spirometer. Data were analyzed by repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA).

RESULTS

Significant interactions were observed for all 4 criteria measures (P < 0.01), meaning that both the exercise programs were effective in improving FVC, FEV1, FEV1%, and VO2peak. Rebound exercise produced more improvement in FEV1, FEV1%, and VO2peak.

CONCLUSIONS

Regular exercise strengthens the respiratory muscles and improves the cellular respiration. At the same time, it improves the muscular, respiratory, and cardio-vascular systems. Effects of rebound exercise seem to be promising. Findings suggest that rebound exercise is a useful complementary means for asthmatic male patients.

Polymorphisms of NRF2 gene correlated with decreased FEV1 in lung cancers of smokers

The metabolism of xenobiotics plays a fundamental role in smoking-related lung function loss and the development of pulmonary disease. An NRF2-dependent response is a key protective mechanism against oxidative stress. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms in NRF2 genes on the level of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) in lung cancers of smokers. We genotyped the status of NRF2 gene polymorphisms in 209 surgically treated lung cancer cases of smokers using TaqMan polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results demonstrated the mean FEV1 in patients with rs2364723 C/C, C/G and G/G to be 2143.9, 2294.2 and 2335.4 ml, respectively, and there was a tendency towards lower FEV1 in C/C phenotype (P=0.0944). The mean FEV1 was significantly lower in the C/C phenotype (2143.9±566.0 ml) compared to C/G or G/G (2308.9±642.9 ml, P=0.05). The mean FEV1 in patients with rs6726395 A/A, G/A and G/G was 66.7, 71.2 and 72.3%, respectively, and there was a significant difference between A/A and G/G phenotype (P=0.043). A tendency towards a lower mean FEV1 in A/A phenotype (66.7±11.7%) was observed when compared to A/G or G/G (71.9±10.7%, P=0.07). This study demonstrated that an NRF2-dependent response to cigarette smoking has the potential to affect FEV1 decrease in a lung cancer population. In conclusion, the results have shown that NRF2 genetic changes may play a role in FEV1 loss in smokers with lung cancer.

Improved correlation between CT emphysema quantification and pulmonary function test by density correction of volumetric CT data based on air and aortic density

OBJECTIVES

To determine the improvement of emphysema quantification with density correction and to determine the optimal site to use for air density correction on volumetric computed tomography (CT).

METHODS

Seventy-eight CT scans of COPD patients (GOLD II-IV, smoking history 39.2±25.3 pack-years) were obtained from several single-vendor 16-MDCT scanners. After density measurement of aorta, tracheal- and external air, volumetric CT density correction was conducted (two reference values: air, -1,000 HU/blood, +50 HU). Using in-house software, emphysema index (EI) and mean lung density (MLD) were calculated. Differences in air densities, MLD and EI prior to and after density correction were evaluated (paired t-test). Correlation between those parameters and FEV1 and FEV1/FVC were compared (age- and sex adjusted partial correlation analysis).

RESULTS

Measured densities (HU) of tracheal- and external air differed significantly (-990 ± 14, -1016 ± 9, P<0.001). MLD and EI on original CT data, after density correction using tracheal- and external air also differed significantly (MLD: -874.9 ± 27.6 vs. -882.3 ± 24.9 vs. -860.5 ± 26.6; EI: 16.8 ± 13.4 vs. 21.1 ± 14.5 vs. 9.7 ± 10.5, respectively, P<0.001). The correlation coefficients between CT quantification indices and FEV1, and FEV1/FVC increased after density correction. The tracheal air correction showed better results than the external air correction.

CONCLUSION

Density correction of volumetric CT data can improve correlations of emphysema quantification and PFT.

Lung function decline in COPD

The landmark study of Fletcher and Peto on the natural history of tobacco smoke-related chronic airflow obstruction suggested that decline in the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV(1)) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is slow at the beginning, becoming faster with more advanced disease. The present authors reviewed spirometric data of COPD patients included in the placebo arms of recent clinical trials to assess the lung function decline of each stage, defined according to the severity of airflow obstruction as proposed by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines. In large COPD populations the mean rate of FEV(1) decline in GOLD stages II and III is between 47 and 79 mL/year and 56 and 59 mL/year, respectively, and lower than 35 mL/year in GOLD stage IV. Few data on FEV(1) decline are available for GOLD stage I. Hence, the loss of lung function, assessed as expiratory airflow reduction, seems more accelerated and therefore more relevant in the initial phases of COPD. To have an impact on the natural history of COPD, it is logical to look at the effects of treatment in the earlier stages.

Adverse health consequences in COPD patients with rapid decline in FEV1--evidence from the UPLIFT trial

BACKGROUND

The rate of decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) is representative of the natural history of COPD. Sparse information exists regarding the associations between the magnitude of annualised loss of FEV1 with other endpoints.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of UPLIFT® trial (four-year, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of tiotropium 18 μg daily in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], n = 5993). Decline of FEV1 was analysed with random co-efficient regression. Patients were categorised according to quartiles based on the rate of decline (RoD) in post-bronchodilator FEV1. The St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) total score, exacerbations and mortality were assessed within each quartile.

RESULTS

Mean (standard error [SE]) post-bronchodilator FEV1 increased in the first quartile (Q1) by 37 (1) mL/year. The other quartiles showed annualised declines in FEV1 (mL/year) as follows: Q2 = 24 (1), Q3 = 59 (1) and Q4 = 125 (2). Age, gender, respiratory medication use at baseline and SGRQ did not distinguish groups. The patient subgroup with the largest RoD had less severe lung disease at baseline and contained a higher proportion of current smokers. The percentage of patients with ≥ 1 exacerbation showed a minimal difference from the lowest to the largest RoD, but exacerbation rates increased with increasing RoD. The highest proportion of patients with ≥ 1 hospitalised exacerbation was in Q4 (Q1 = 19.5% [tiotropium], 26% [control]; Q4 = 33.8% [tiotropium] and 33.1% [control]). Time to first exacerbation and hospitalised exacerbation was shorter with increasing RoD. Rate of decline in SGRQ increased in direct proportion to each quartile. The group with the largest RoD had the highest mortality.

CONCLUSION

Patients can be grouped into different RoD quartiles with the observation of different clinical outcomes indicating that specific (or more aggressive) approaches to management may be needed.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00144339.

Changing patterns in long-acting bronchodilator trials in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Developments in the understanding of COPD have led to standard guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and spirometry assessments, which have in turn influenced trial designs and inclusion criteria. Substantial clinical evidence has been gained from clinical trials and supports a positive approach to COPD management. However, there appear to be changing trends in recent trials. Large bronchodilator studies have reported lower improvements in trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV(1)) values versus placebo than were observed in earlier studies, while the rate of FEV(1) decline seems to be lower in more recent trials. In addition, recent evidence has called into question the usefulness of bronchodilator reversibility testing as a trial inclusion criterion. Baseline patient populations and use of concomitant medications have also changed over recent years due to increased treatment options. The impact of these many variables on clinical trial results is explored, with a particular focus on changes in inclusion criteria and patient baseline demographics.