Peripheral neutrophil stiffness in severe COPD exacerbations (original) (raw)

European Respiratory Journal, 2011

Abstract

Rationale: Exacerbations of COPD (EXCOPD) are characterized by activated pulmonary neutrophils (NEUT) with potentially increased cellular stiffness. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess NEUT stiffness in patients with COPD during and after exacerbations. Methods: 12 COPD patients (age, 70±9 yrs; 83% male; all smokers, 71±36 pack-yrs) hospitalized for EXCOPD were included. Stiffness of peripheral NEUT was assessed using the atomic force microscopy technique within the first 72 h of admission and 12 weeks after discharge (Study Group [SG]). If patients suffered a new episode within this period of follow-up, measurements were repeated at this time in point (mean, 7±4 weeks) (Re-exacerbation Group [RG]). The COPD Assessment Test (CAT), the ADO Index and dyspnoea (MMRC) were also assessed. Results: There were no differences on admission between the two subsets of patients. Increased NEUT stiffness in SG patients (n, 6) decreased from admission (890±293 Pa) to discharge (616±226 Pa) (p Conclusions: Changes in peripheral NEUT stiffness during COPD exacerbations and convalescence indicate that the activation of NEUT underlies enhanced pulmonary inflammation. Supported by SEPAR-2010 and CIBERES

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