Correlation of Pathogen and Biomarker Levels with COPD Severity and Exacerbation Frequency
Keywords:
COPD, biomarkers, pathogens, GOLD grade, CAT score, exacerbationsAbstract
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) severity is influenced by airway pathogens, systemic biomarkers, and clinical indices. Their combined evaluation may improve risk stratification.
Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on COPD patients stratified by GOLD grade. Data included COPD Assessment Test (CAT), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) scale, FEV₁% predicted, and exacerbation frequency in the previous 12 months. Sputum cultures identified pathogens, and serum biomarkers (CRP, IL-6, fibrinogen) were quantified. Correlations were analyzed between biomarkers/pathogens and COPD severity indices.
Results: Pathogen colonization was higher in GOLD III–IV patients. CRP and IL-6 levels strongly correlated with CAT scores and exacerbation frequency. FEV₁% predicted showed inverse correlation with both biomarkers and bacterial load. Patients with ≥2 exacerbations exhibited significantly higher biomarker levels and pathogen prevalence.
Conclusion: Specific pathogens and systemic biomarkers correlate with COPD severity and exacerbation frequency, supporting their role in risk stratification.
