SERUM URIC ACID AS A PROGNOSTIC MARKER IN CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE PATIENTS

Abstract

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease causing limitation of airflow due to inflammation of airways subsequent emphysema formation, resulting in tissue hypoxia which is more prominent during Acute Exacerbation of COPD . Uric acid (UA),a final product of Purine metabolism is elevated in hypoxic states. Yet no study has evaluated the role of UA levels in acute exacerbations of COPD including the outcome and frequency of exacerbation of COPD patients. This Study aims  the association of serum UA levels in acute COPD exacerbations and its utilization in predicting future exacerbations of COPD.

Methods

Source of Data-All inpatients and outpatients diagnosed COPD at Department of General  Medicine, R.L.Jalappa Hospital will be included in the cross-sectional study.

Sample size-104 subjects two groups, each group 52 subjects ,95% confidence interval with incidence ratio 1.96, calculated with formula-n=Z_1-ɑ²(p)(1-p)÷d²,Z_1-ɑ²=95%with1.96,p= prevalenced=absolute error. Inclusion criteria - All adult patients (>18years) current or ex-smokers (>20 pack-years) with a previous diagnosis of COPD by a respiratory  physician. Exclusion criteria - Patients with a history of respiratory disorders other than COPD and other chronic co morbidities that significantly influence uric acid levels  will be excluded.

Result.

There was a positive correlation found between serum UA and Borg dyspnea score and there was a positive correlation found between serum UA and CRP which were statistically significant

Conclusion

UA level is a widely available biomarker in predicting acute exacerbations of COPD, its adverse effects, hospital stay, its mortality and early detection of high-risk patients would contribute improved prognosis by leading to more intensive treatment.