A study to find the bacteriological profile and biomarkers in COPD patients and correlation with different comorbidities
Keywords:
COPD, AECOPD, bacteriological profile, antimicrobial resistance, CRP, IL-6, procalcitonin, comorbidities.Abstract
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory disorder and a leading global cause of morbidity and mortality. Acute exacerbations (AECOPD) are frequently triggered by bacterial infections, yet pathogen profiles and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns vary regionally. Conventional spirometry is insufficient for early detection, while biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and procalcitonin (PCT) offer additional diagnostic and prognostic insights. Comorbidities, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and prior tuberculosis, further influence infection risk and biomarker expression.
Objective: To determine the bacteriological profile and AMR patterns in COPD patients, evaluate systemic biomarkers (CRP, IL-6, PCT), and analyze their correlations with disease severity (GOLD grade, CAT score, mMRC, FEV₁%) and comorbidities.
Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study will be conducted at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and AVBRH, Wardha (2022–2025). Sputum and BAL specimens from 457 spirometry-confirmed COPD patients will undergo microscopy, culture, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing as per CLSI M100 standards. Fasting venous blood will be collected for biomarker analysis. Clinical data, GOLD classification, and comorbidities will be documented. Statistical analyses will assess pathogen prevalence, biomarker distributions, and correlations with disease severity and comorbidity patterns.
Expected Results: We anticipate defining the local spectrum of COPD-related pathogens and resistance profiles, identifying biomarker thresholds predictive of bacterial exacerbations, and establishing associations between infection, biomarkers, and comorbidities.
Conclusion: This study will provide integrated bacteriological and biomarker data, enabling tailored antibiotic use, improved prognostication, and personalized COPD management in resource-limited Indian settings.
