EFFECTS OF THE USE OF BETA-BLOCKERS ON CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) ASSOCIATED WITH CARDIOVASCULAR COMORBITIES: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS.

Introduction: Cardiovascular comorbidity is common in individuals with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These factor interferes in pharmacological treatment. The use of beta-blockers has been proposed for their known cardioprotective effects. However, there is a reluctance to use them due to adverse reactions and the risk of causing bronchospasm. Objective: To summarize existing evidences on the effects of beta-blocker use in COPD associated with cardiovascular comorbidities in relation to disease severity, exacerbation and mortality outcomes. Material and Methods: EMBASE, Medline, Lilacs, Cochrane Library and Science Direct databases were used. Study selection and data extraction, observational studies were included that evaluated the effects of beta-blockers in individuals with COPD and cardiovascular comorbidities, and related disease severity, exacerbations, or mortality to outcomes. Studies that did not present important information about the sample and pharmacological treatment were excluded. Twenty studies were included. Results: Relevance to patient care and clinical practice: The use of beta-blockers in individuals with COPD and cardiovascular disease caused positive effects on mortality and exacerbations outcomes compared with the results of individuals who did not use them. The severity of the disease caused a slight change in FEV1. The OR for mortality was 0.50 (95 % CI: 0.39-0.63; p-value <0.00001) and for exacerbations 0.76 (95 % CI: 0.62-0.92; p -value = 0.005), being favorable to the group that used beta-blockers. Conclusion: Further studies are needed to study the effect of using a specific beta-blocker in COPD associated with a specific cardiovascular comorbidity.

Usefulness of receptor binding domain protein-based serodiagnosis of COVID-19.

Objectives: This study evaluated the performance of recombinant receptor binding domain (RBD) protein-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (RBD-ELISAs) for detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin (Ig) G and IgM antibodies. Methods: In this study, 705 sera from SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals and 315 sera from healthy individuals were analyzed. Results: The RBD-ELISA IgG exhibited high specificity (99.1%) and moderate sensitivity (48.0%), with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 73.5%. RBD-ELISA IgM demonstrated specificity at 94.6% and sensitivity at 51.1%, with an accuracy of 72.8%. Both assays displayed improved performance when analyzing samples collected 15-21 days post-symptom onset, achieving sensitivity and accuracy exceeding 88% and 90%, respectively. Combining RBD-ELISA IgG and IgM in parallel analysis enhanced sensitivity to 98.6% and accuracy to 96.2%. Comparing these RBD-ELISAs with commercially available tests, the study found overlapping sensitivity and similar specificity values. Notably, the combined RBD-ELISA IgG and IgM showed superior performance. Cross-reactivity analysis revealed low false-positive rates (4.4% for IgG, 3.7% for IgM), primarily with viral infections. Conclusion: This research underscores the potential of RBD-based ELISAs for COVID-19 diagnosis, especially when assessing samples collected 15-21 days post-symptom onset and utilizing a parallel testing approach. The RBD protein's immunogenicity and specificity make it a valuable tool for serodiagnosis, offering an alternative to polymerase chain reaction-based methods, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Associação entre doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica e a má condição de saúde periodontal: um estudo transversal / Association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and poor periodontal health: a cross-sectional study

Objetivo: estudos sugerem uma associação entre a doença periodontal e a doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC). O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a condição periodontal em pacientes com DPOC. Metodologia: Este estudo transversal incluiu 33 pacientes com DPOC e 30 pacientes sem DPOC (grupo controle). Todos os pacientes realizaram espirometria e foram examinados por um dentista. A condição periodontal foi avaliada através dos seguintes índices: número de dentes, índice de placa (IP), índice de sangramento gengival (IG), profundidade de sondagem (PS), PS dos sítios doentes (PSD), nível de inserção clínica (NIC), NIC dos sítios doentes (NICD) e percentual de sítios doentes (NICDP). Para análise estatística foram utilizados o teste de qui-quadrado de Pearson, o testet de Student, análise de regressão logística e cálculo do odds ratio. Resultados: O grupo DPOC apresentou maiores IP (p=0,01), NIC (p=0,001) e NICDP (p<0,001), com odds ratio de 1,2 (95%IC: 1,023­1,408). Conclusões: Os pacientes com DPOC apresentaram pior condição periodontal. Mais estudos são necessários para esclarecer o papel da terapia periodontal no protocolo de acompanhamento dos pacientes com DPOC

Objective: evidence suggests an association between periodontal disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the periodontal status in patients with COPD. Methods: this cross-sectional study included 33 patients with COPD and 30 patients without COPD (control group). All patients underwent spirometry and were examined by a dentist. Periodontal status was evaluated by the following indexes: number of teeth, plaque index (PI), gingival bleeding index (GBI), probing depth (PD), PD of diseased sites (PDD), clinical attachment level (CAL), CAL of diseased sites (CALD) and percentage of diseased sites (CALDP). The findings were analyzed under Pearson's chi-square test, independent samples t test and logistic regression with odds ratio. Results: the COPD group had higher PI (p = 0,01), CAL (p = 0,001) and CALDP (p <0,001), and the odds ratio for patients with COPD was 1.2 (95% CI: 1,023-1,408). Conclusions: patients with COPD present worse periodontal status. More studies are needed in order to clarify the role of periodontal therapy in the management of COPD.

Prevalence and Impact of Comorbidities in Individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review.

This study aimed to describe the prevalence of comorbidities associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and their relation with relevant outcomes. A systematic review based on the PRISMA methodology was performed from January 2020 until July 2021. The MEDLINE, Lilacs, and Scielo databases were searched to identify studies related to COPD and its comorbidities. Observational studies on the prevalence of comorbidities in COPD patients and costs with health estimates, reduced quality of life, and mortality were included. Studies that were restricted to one or more COPD pain assessments and only specific comorbidities such as osteoporosis, bronchitis, and asthma were excluded. The initial search identified 1,409 studies and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 studies were finally selected for analysis (comprising data from 447,459 COPD subjects). The most frequent COPD comorbidities were: hypertension (range, 17%-64.7%), coronary artery disease (19.9%-47.8%), diabetes (10.2%-45%), osteoarthritis (18%-43.8%), psychiatric conditions (12.1%-33%), and asthma (14.7%-32.5%). Several comorbidities had an impact on the frequency and severity of COPD exacerbations, quality of life, and mortality risk, in particular malignancies, coronary artery disease, chronic heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. Comorbidities, especially cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, are frequent in COPD patients, and some of them are associated with higher mortality.

Reprodutibilidade intraobservador do teste Timed Up and Go para pacientes com DPOC / Intrarater reliability of Timed Up and Go Test to patients with COPD

| INTRODUÇÃO: O Timed UP and Go Test (TUG) é um importante teste utilizado para a avaliação de desfechos funcionais na DPOC, como mobilidade, equilíbrio dinâmico e risco de queda. No cenário clínico prático, a aplicação repetida do TUG é realizada muitas vezes pelo mesmo observador, no objetivo de avaliar diversas intervenções aplicadas na DPOC. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o grau de reprodutibilidade intraobservador do TUG em indivíduos com DPOC. METODOLOGIA: Estudo descritivo, de corte transversal, realizado com indivíduos com DPOC, atendidos ambulatorialmente na cidade de Salvador-Bahia. Foram verificadas características sociodemográficas e clínicas como a espirometria (VEF1/CVF), e tempo de realização de duas práticas no mesmo dia do teste TUG. A reprodutibilidade do TUG foi avaliada pelo Coeficiente de Correlação Intraclasse (CCI), CAAE número 38143214.0.0000.0057. RESULTADOS: Trinta e um pacientes voluntários foram avaliados; destes, 24 (77,4%) homens, média da idade de 68,6 ± 9,8 anos, com relação VEF1/CVF pós-broncodilatador de 59,0 ± 10,8 %. Na análise da reprodutibilidade intraobservador do TUG pelo CCI, obteve-se α = 0,897 (CI 95%: 0,786; 0,950; p < 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: O teste TUG possui excelente reprodutibilidade intraobservador e uma pequena variabilidade quando aplicados duas vezes em pacientes com DPOC, sendo a aplicação para avaliação da mobilidade, na prática do cuidado em saúde considerada factível.

INTRODUCTION: The Timed UP and Go Test (TUG) is an important test used to assess functional outcomes in COPD, such as mobility, dynamic balance, and risk of falling. In clinical practice, the repeated application of the TUG is performed several times by the same observer to evaluate different interventions applied in COPD. OBJECTIVE: To assess the degree of intraobserver reproducibility of TUG in individuals with COPD. METHODOLOGY: Descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out with individuals with COPD treated in an outpatient clinic in the city of SalvadorBahia. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics such as spirometry (FEV1/FVC) were verified, as well as two practices of the TUG Test on the same day. The reproducibility of TUG was evaluated fur Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). CAAE number 38143214.0.0000.0057. RESULTS: Thirty-one volunteer patients were evaluated, of which 24 (77.4%) men, mean age 68.6 ± 9.8 years, with post-bronchodilator FEV1//FVC ratio 59.0 ± 10.8%. In the analysis of intraobserver reproducibility of the TUG by the ICC, α = 0.897 (CI 95%: 0.786; 0.950; p < 0.0001) was obtained. CONCLUSION: The TUG test has excellent intraobserver reproducibility and a small variability when applied twice in patients with COPD, being the application for mobility assessment, in care practice, considered viable.

Atualização: Sarcopenia / Update: Sarcopenia

OBJETIVO: Fazer uma atualização da revisão de literatura sobre sarcopenia publicada em 2014 nesta revista. De acordo com o Consenso do Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2), a sarcopenia foi redefinida como uma doença muscular, caracterizada pela redução da força muscular, associada à diminuição da qualidade/quantidade muscular e/ou desempenho físico, sendo classificada como primária, secundária, aguda e crônica. Além de consequências físicas como aumento da ocorrência de quedas e limitação para atividades cotidianas, pode promover alterações sistêmicas pelo desequilíbrio entre síntese e degradação proteica. A prevalência aumenta com a idade, sendo mais alta a partir de 60 anos. Estudos em seis países encontraram prevalência entre 4,6% e 22,1%, havendo oscilação de valores conforme definições utilizadas, métodos diagnósticos e os pontos de corte para índice de massa muscular (IMM). Como estratégia para refinar a detecção do risco da sarcopenia, o EWGSOP2 sugere aplicação do questionário SARC-F. Para mensuração da variável massa muscular, os métodos recomendados são Ressonância Magnética, Tomografia Computadorizada, Absorciometria de Raio-X de Dupla Energia, Bioimpedância Elétrica e Antropometria, existindo acurácias e custos variáveis entre eles. Na aferição da força muscular, a principal forma de mensuração é a força de preensão palmar. Já o desempenho físico pode ser quantificado através do teste de velocidade de marcha de quatro metros. As formas de tratamento são treino de exercícios de resistência progressiva e aeróbicos, além de uma nutrição adequada. O estilo de vida sedentário, obesidade e fragilidade são fatores desencadeantes de perda de massa e função muscular no ambiente clínico.

OBJECTIVES: To update on a sarcopenia literature review published in 2014 in this journal. According to the Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People Consensus (EWGSOP2), sarcopenia was redefined as a muscular disease, characterized by muscular strength reduction, associated with a diminished muscular quantity and /or quality and /or low physical performance, being stratified as primary, secondary acute and chronic. Beyond physical consequences as a fall risk and daily activities, sarcopenia can promote a dysbalance between protein synthesis and degradation. Sarcopenia prevalence is higher with increasing age, especially after 60 years. Studies in six countries had found sarcopenia prevalence between 4.6% and 22.1%, but differences between definitions, diagnostic methods, and cutoff points to evaluate muscle mass and function are found. To improve sarcopenia risk detection, EWGSOP2 suggests the use of the SARC-F questionnaire. Muscle mass measurement recommended methods are Magnet Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography, Double Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry, Electric Bioimpedance, and Anthropometry with variable accuracy and costs between these methods. To evaluate muscle strength, the handgrip strength test is the main method recommended. In addition, four Meter Gait speed is recommended to evaluate physical performance. Treatment options are progressive exercise, endurance training, and aerobic exercises, together with nutritional interventions. Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and frailty are the main risks factors associated with muscle mass and function losses in the clinical setting

Early detection of P.1 variant of SARS-CoV-2 in a cluster of cases in Salvador, Brazil.

We report 3 cases of severe COVID-19 due to the SARS-CoV-2 P.1 lineage in a familial cluster detected in Salvador, Bahia-Brazil. All cases were linked to travel by family members from the state of Amazonas to Bahia in late December 2020. This report indicates the cryptic transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 P.1 lineage across Brazil and highlights the importance of genomic surveillance to track the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

A perda urinária é frequente em pacientes com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC) atendidos ambulatorialmente / Urinary leakage is frequent in outpatient chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients

INTRODUÇÃO: A incontinência urinária (IU) é definida como qualquer perda involuntária de urina, sendo a tosse um fator de risco. A tosse é um sintoma frequente da Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC) podendo associar-se com a IU. Objetivo: Avaliar a frequência de perda urinária e o impacto da IU na qualidade de vida das pessoas com DPOC e caracterizar a presença de tosse. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Tratou-se de um estudo descritivo, realizado em pessoas com DPOC. A coleta dos dados foi realizada no Departamento de Ciências da Vida II/UNEB. Aplicou-se o International Consultation Incontinence Short-Form (ICIQ-SF) para avaliar a frequência de perda urinária e o King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) para o impacto na qualidade de vida. Os dados foram analisados no software SPSS (v.22.0), descritos em medida de tendência central, dispersão e proporções. Um p < 0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significante. RESULTADOS: Das 30 pessoas avaliadas, a média da idade foi 66,7± 8,6 anos; desses 11 (36,7%) apresentaram queixa de IU, sendo sete (63,3%) mulheres. Entre esses a média de pontuação do ICIQ-SF foi de 5,9± 4,4. Vinte e oito participantes (93,3%) tinham tosse crônica. Analisando o KHQ, o domínio de maior impacto foi "percepção geral de saúde''. CONCLUSÃO: A frequência de IU em pessoas com DPOC foi de 35,7% e a de tosse foi de 93,3%. Entre as pessoas com perda urinária, 36,7% referiram alguma interferência na vida diária. É importante incluir a avaliação da IU para ampliar o manejo clínico da condição de saúde dessas pessoas.

INTRODUCTION: Urinary incontinence (UI) is defined as any involuntary leakage of urine in which cough is a risk factor. Cough is a common symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and may be associated with UI. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the urinary leakage frequency and the UI impact in the life's quality of people with copd and characterizing the cough presence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a descriptive study conducted in people with COPD. Data collection was performed at the Department of Life Sciences II/ UNEB. The International Consultation Incontinence Short-Form (ICIQSF) was applied to assess the frequency of urinary leakage and the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) for the impact on quality of life. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (v.22.0), described as central tendency, dispersion and proportions and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Thirty people were evaluated with the mean age 66.7±8.6 years. Eleven people (36.7%) complained of UI, seven (63.3%) were women. The average ICIQ-SSF score was 5.9±4.4. Twentyeight participants (93.3%) had chronic cough. The domain of greatest impact of the KHQ was "general health perception". CONCLUSION: UI frequency in people with COPD was 35.7% and cough was 93.3%. People with leakage urinary (36,7%) reported some interference in daily life. It is important to include UI assessment to be clear the clinical management of their health status.

Associação do desempenho físico no teste Timed Up and Go com autorrelato de quedas em idosos hospitalizados / Association of physical performance in the Timed Up and Go test with self-report of falls in hospitalized elderly

INTRODUÇÃO: Episódios de quedas estão associados com redução da mobilidade e mortalidade e são mais comuns em idosos. O Timed up and Go (TUG) é um dos principais instrumentos para rastrear o risco de cair em idosos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação do teste TUG para autorrelato de quedas no último ano em idosos hospitalizados. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado em um hospital privado da cidade de Salvador/BA, no período de Agosto de 2013 a Janeiro de 2014. Foram incluídos indivíduos de ambos os sexos, a partir do 1º ao 5º dia de internação. A acurácia do teste foi calculada pela curva ROC (Receiver Operator Characteristic) e análise dos valores de sensibilidade e especificidade. Os resultados foram dispostos em média e desvio padrão ou valor absoluto e percentual. Foi considerado significativo um valor de p <0,05. RESULTADOS: Foram inclusos 68 idosos, com idade média 70,4 ± 7,7 anos, IMC = 25,66 ± 5,26 kg/m2, índice de Charlson 5,35 ± 1,97 e tempo médio de internação 2,76 ± 1,71 dias. O tempo médio de realização do TUG foi 10,02 ± 5,38 segundos. A acurácia do TUG foi considerada moderada (0,67; IC = 0,54 - 0,80; p=0,029). O ponto de corte de 9,2 segundos encontrado na curva ROC foi o ponto de maior associação com autorrelato de quedas com uma sensibilidade de 67,7% e especifidade 68,2%. CONCLUSÃO: O desempenho no TUG tem associação com autorrelato de quedas no último ano em idosos hospitalizados.

INTRODUCTION: Episodes of falls are associated with decreased mobility and mortality and are more common in the elderly. Timed up and Go (TUG) is one of the key tools for tracking the risk of falling in the elderly. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of the TUG test for self-report of falls in the last year in hospitalized elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a private hospital in the city of Salvador, Bahia, from August 2013 to January 2014. Individuals of both sexes were included from the 1st to 5th day of hospitalization. The accuracy of the test was calculated by the Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curve and analysis of the sensitivity and specificity values. The results were arranged as mean and standard deviation or absolute and percentage values. A value of p <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: We included 68 elderly people, mean age 70.4 ± 7.7 years, BMI = 25.66 ± 5.26 kg / m2, Charlson index 5.35 ± 1.97 and mean time of hospitalization 2.76 ± 1.71 days. The mean TUG time was 10.02 ± 5.38 seconds. The cutoff point of 9.2 seconds found in the ROC curve was the point of greatest association with self-report of falls with a sensitivity of 67.7% and specificity of 68.2%. CONCLUSION: TUG performance is associated with self-report of falls in the last year in hospitalized elderly.

Adaptação cardiovascular no Teste de Caminhada dos Seis Minutos em pacientes com DPOC: estudo transversal / Cardiovascular adaptation in the six-minute walk test in COPD patients: transversal study

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o comportamento da adaptação cardiovascular e da saturação periférica de oxigênio em indivíduos com DPOC submetidos no teste de caminhada dos seis minutos (TC6). MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo de corte transversal, que foram incluídas pessoas com diagnóstico de DPOC, confirmado pela espirometria e de ambos os sexos. A magnitude de sintomas foi avaliada pela escala de dispneia Medical Research Council (MRC) e questionário COPD Assessment Test (CAT). Aplicou-se o TC6 para avaliar a tolerância ao esforço. Para mensurar a frequência cardíaca máxima (FC máx) prevista para a idade foram utilizadas equações específicas para população brasileira. RESULTADOS: Avaliou-se 34 indivíduos com DPOC, 20 (58,8%) homens; relação VEF1/CVF foi 56,7%± 10,2% pós broncodilatador (BD). Quatorze 14 (41,2%) indivíduos apresentaram impacto clínico moderado; 16 (47,2%) dos avaliados apresentou grau 2 na escala do MRC. As médias das distâncias percorridas no primeiro e segundo TC6 foram 383,5 ± 13,6; 408,6 ± 85,7 metros, correspondendo a 70, 75%; 75,10% em relação ao valor previsto (p=0,001). As médias da FC máx ao final do primeiro e segundo TC6, foram 94,1 ± 21,9; 92,3 ± 17,9 bpm e a FC pós percentual da FC máx prevista pré e pós TC6 foram 61,1% ± 17,7%; 59,7% ± 21,5% e 14 (41,2%) pacientes apresentaram dessaturação de O2 no primeiro TC6; 9 (26,5%) no segundo teste. CONCLUSÕES: Pacientes com DPOC, apresentam aumento da FC identificado pelo esforço submáximo, por meio do percentual da FC max. Indivíduos com maior comprometimento da função pulmonar apresentaram dessaturação de O2. .

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the behavior of cardiovascular adaptation and peripheral oxygen saturation in individuals with COPD submitted to the six-minute walk test (6MWT). MATERIAL AND METHODS: It was performed a descriptive study with person with a diagnosis of COPD confirmed by spirometry of both sexes. The Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnea scale and the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) questionnaire were used to assess the magnitude of symptoms. The 6MWT was used to assess effort tolerance. To measure the maximum heart rate (HRmax) predicted for age, specific equations were used for the Brazilian population. RESULTS: 34 individuals with COPD were evaluated, 20 (58.8%) men; FEV1 / FVC ratio was 56.7% ± 10.2% after BD. Fourteen (41.2%) were classified as grade 2 and were classified as grade 2 (MRC scale). The means of the distances covered in the first and second TC6 were 383.5 ± 13.6; 408.6 ± 85.7 meters, corresponding to 70.7%; 75.1% in relation to the predicted value (p = 0.001). The mean maximum heart rate at the end of the first and second 6MWT were 94.1 ± 21.9; 92.3 ± 17.9 bpm and the heart rate post-percentage of the predicted maximum heart rate before and after the 6MWT were 61.1% ± 17.7%; 59.7% ± 21.5% and 14 (41.2%) patients presented O2 desaturation on the 6MWT; 9 (26.5%) in the second test. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with COPD throughout the 6MWT show increased heart rate and O2 desaturation in exercise activity.

Qualidade de vida de idosos hipertensos e diabéticos da comunidade: um estudo observacional / Quality of life of elderly hypertensive and diabetics of the community: an observational study

INTRODUÇÃO: O envelhecimento da população brasileira provocou modificações no perfil das morbidades, aumentando as doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT), principalmente hipertensão e diabetes, interferindo na qualidade de vida. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a qualidade de vida de idosos hipertensos e diabéticos da comunidade, analisar suas correlações e caracterizar o perfil desses idosos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODO: Estudo observacional, transversal, com 108 idosos da comunidade com 60 anos ou mais. Na coleta de dados, aplicaram-se questionários sociodemográficos, antropométricos, de morbidades, avaliação do comprometimento cognitivo, por meio do Mini Exame do Estado Mental, e da qualidade de vida por meio do WHOQOL-OLD. Os dados foram submetidos à estatística descritiva, análise de variância para comparação de médias entre os grupos e correlação de Pearson para testar a associação da qualidade de vida com o quantitativo de DCNT. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi 70±6 anos, predominância do sexo feminino (85,2%); baixa escolaridade (75,8%); baixa renda (51,9%); morando com familiares (80,6%) e casados (46,3%). Em relação às DCNT, 37,0% eram hipertensos, 18,5% diabéticos e 14,8% tinham associação das duas. Os idosos sem DCNT apresentaram médias do WHOQOL-OLD maiores que os demais grupos com pelo menos uma DCNT e houve correlação negativa da quantidade de DCNT e a qualidade de vida. CONCLUSÃO: DCNT influenciam negativamente a qualidade de vida dos idosos, sendo que idosos sem DCNT apresentaram melhor qualidade de vida, comparados aos hipertensos, diabéticos ou com associação de ambas e, o medo de morrer foi a variável que apresentou maior interferência na qualidade de vida dos idosos.

INTRODUCTION: With the aging of the Brazilian population, there was a change in the morbidity profile, with a consequent increase in chronic noncommunicable diseases (CNCD) OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of life of elderly diabetic and hypertensive in the community and characterize the profile of these elderly people. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 108 elderly subjects were investigated in a cross-sectional observational study. Data collection included questionnaires containing sociodemographic, anthropometric and self-reported morbidity data, as well as the evaluation of cognitive impairment through the Mini Mental State Examination and quality of life through the WHOQOL-OLD. Data were submitted to descriptive statistics, analysis of variance for comparison of means between groups and Pearson correlation to test the association of quality of life with the quantitative of CNCD. RESULTS: Mean age 70 ± 6, predominantly female (85.2%); low schooling (75.8%); low income (51.9%); living with relatives (80.6%) and married (46.3%). They were hypertensive (37.0%), diabetics (18.5%) and both (14.8%). Elderly non-CNCD had WHOQOL-OLD averages higher than the other groups with at least one CNCD, and there was a moderate and statistically significant negative association of the amount of CNCD and quality of life. CONCLUSION: CNCD negatively influence the quality of life of the elderly, and the elderly without chronic disease presented better quality of life when compared to the elderly with the presence of hypertension, diabetes or both, and the fear of dying was the variable that presented greater interference in the quality of life of the elderly.

Effect of a home-based exercise program on functional mobility and quality of life in elderly people: protocol of a single-blind, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Elderly people have high rates of functional decline, which compromises independence, self-confidence, and quality of life (QoL). Physical exercise leads to significant improvements in strength, balance, functional mobility, and QoL, but there is still reduced access to this therapeutic strategy due to difficulties in locomotion to training centers or lack of adaptation to the exercise environment. METHODS/DESIGN: The purpose of this clinical trial will be to verify the effect of a progressive and semi-supervised, home-based exercise program on the functional mobility, and in the QoL of sedentary elderly people. This is a protocol of a consecutive, single-center, single-blind, and randomized controlled trial. The design, conduct, and report follows the SPIRIT (Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials) guidelines. Sedentary elderly people will be enrolled, and randomly allocated into two groups. The intervention group will perform exercises in their own home and the control group will not perform exercises. The evaluations will occur at study enrollment and after 3 months of intervention, and will be performed using the functional mobility Timed Up & Go (TUG) test and sociodemographic and QoL questionnaires. In the statistical analysis, comparisons of mean and correlation analyses will be performed. The primary expected outcome is the improvement in functional mobility verified through the TUG test and the secondary outcome is the improvement in QoL verified by the WHOQOL-OLD. DISCUSSION: The lack of scientific evidence demonstrating the benefits of semi-supervised home exercise on functional mobility and QoL in elderly people represents an obstacle to the development of guidelines for clinical practice and for policy-makers. The World Health Organization highlighted the importance of musculoskeletal health programs for elderly people, and the exercise program described in this protocol was designed to be viable, easy to implement, and inexpensive, and could be performed at the home of elderly subjects after receiving only guidelines and follow-up via periodic visits. Based on these facts, we hope that this study will demonstrate that a well-structured, home-based exercise program can be effective in improving functional mobility and QoL of sedentary elderly people, even without constant supervision during exercise. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC), Identifier: RBR-3cqzfy . Registered on 2 December 2016.

Prevalência de sarcopenia na Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica: revisão sistemática / Prevalência de sarcopenia na Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica: revisão sistemática Prevalence of sarcopenia in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: systematic review

INTRODUÇÃO: DPOC está associada a um processo inflamatório sistêmico que pode causar sarcopenia, redução da função e massa muscular, embora sua frequência e intensidade não seja completamente conhecida em portadores dessa enfermidade. OBJETIVO: descrever a prevalência e métodos de identificação da sarcopenia na DPOC através de uma revisão sistemática. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Revisão sistemática utilizando a metodologia PICO e palavras-chave (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Sarcopenia). Foram incluídos estudos publicados que estimaram a prevalência de sarcopenia na DPOC. Excluídos aqueles cujo método não detalhou o diagnóstico da sarcopenia. RESULTADOS: A pesquisa resultou inicialmente em 897 artigos. Desses, 877 foram excluídos, sendo 20 selecionados (15 transversais, cinco longitudinais, um caso/controle). As amostras variaram de 57 a 2.582 participantes, a maioria (70%) conduzida em ambulatório. Um estudo foi de base populacional. A idade média foi de 66 anos. A prevalência de sarcopenia na DPOC variou (4,4% a 86,5%). Os métodos diagnósticos utilizados para determinar massa muscular foram o Dual X-ray Absorptiometry, a bioimpedância e as equações de referência. A força muscular foi estimada utilizando-se a preensão manual em dinamômetros portáteis ou a flexão/extensão do joelho através do dinamômetro isocinético. A capacidade funcional foi avaliada pelo teste de caminhada dos seis minutos ou através do teste de velocidade da marcha. CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de sarcopenia na DPOC encontrada nos estudos (4,4 a 86,5%) é muito variável. Influenciada não somente pela característica do paciente, mas também pelo local, delineamento e método diagnóstico utilizado. Uma padronização de métodos parece ser necessária para se uniformizar condutas na literatura. [AU]

COPD is associated with a systemic inflammatory process that can cause sarcopenia, reduced function and muscle mass, although its frequency and intensity is not completely known in patients with this disease. OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence and methods of identifying sarcopenia in COPD through a systematic review. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Systematic review using the PICO methodology and keywords (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Sarcopenia). We included published studies that estimated the prevalence of sarcopenia in COPD. Excluding those whose method did not detail the diagnosis of sarcopenia. RESULTS: The search resulted initially in 897 articles. Of these, 877 were excluded, of which 20 were selected (15 transverse, five longitudinal, one case / control). Samples ranged from 57 to 2,582 subjects, the majority (70%) conducted on an outpatient basis. One study was population-based. The mean age was 66 years. The prevalence of sarcopenia in COPD varied (4.4% to 86.5%). The diagnostic methods used to determine muscle mass were Dual X-ray Absorptiometry, bioimpedance and reference equations. Muscle strength was estimated using manual gripping on portable dynamometers or knee flexion / extension through the isokinetic dynamometer. Functional capacity was assessed by the six-minute walk test or gait speed test. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of sarcopenia in COPD found in the studies (4.4 to 86.5%) is very variable. Influenced not only by the patient's characteristic, but also by the location, design and diagnostic method used. A standardization of methods seems to be necessary to standardize conducts in the literature. [AU]

Association of sleep quality with excessive daytime somnolence and quality of life of elderlies of community.

BACKGROUND: The progressive increase in the elderly population contributes to the fact that studies on human aging have important attention of health professionals and government agents, since they present a great challenge regarding public health. Our objective is to characterize the profile of older people with poor sleep quality and analyze possible associations with excessive daytime somnolence, quality of life and functional mobility. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study, involving elderlies of the community, with the questionnaires Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale, WHOQOL-OLD and application of the Timed Up and Go test - TUG. Descriptive statistics, Student's t test for paired samples and Pearson's correlation coefficient (p ≤ 0.05) were used. RESULTS: We recruited 131 elderly people, predominantly female (87%); mean age 68 ± 7 years, low per capita income (84.8% ≤ 2 minimum wage), low education (86.3% ≤ 3 years of study), and mostly staying with relatives (67.9%), married (39.7%) or amassed (35.9%). Seventy-one percent of the sample is above normal weight, 90.1% of women have an abdominal circumference ≥ 80 cm and a high prevalence of chronic and psychosocial diseases was identified in the self-report, and the risk of obstructive sleep apnea in 38.2%. The mean PSQI, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, WHOQOL-OLD and TUG were equal to, respectively, 11.2 ± 3.2; 8.32 ± 2.2; 84.8 ± 10.2 and 8.97 ± 2. An association of sleep quality with excessive daytime somnolence and quality of life, while not with functional mobility, was observed. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study allowed to identify a sleep quality associated with excessive daytime somnolence and quality of life and also to characterize the profile of elders with poor sleep quality.

Home exercise improves the quality of sleep and daytime sleepiness of elderlies: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Aging causes physiological changes which affect the quality of sleep. Supervised physical exercise is an important therapeutic resource to improve the sleep of the elderlies, however there is a low adherence to those type of programs, so it is necessary to implement an exercise program which is feasible and effective. The study aimed to test the hypothesis that a semi-supervised home exercise program, improves sleep quality and daytime sleepiness of elderlies of the community who present poor sleep quality. METHODS: This was a randomized controlled trial study, conducted from May to September 2017, in Northeastern Brazil, with elderlies of the community aging 60 years old or older, sedentary, with lower scores or equal to 5 at the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and without cognitive decline. From one hundred ninety-one potential participants twenty-eight refused to participate, therefore, one hundred thirty-one (mean age 68 ± 7 years), and 88% female, were randomly assigned to an intervention group - IG (home exercise and sleep hygiene, n = 65) and a control group - CG (sleep hygiene only, n = 66). Sleep assessment tools were used: PSQI, Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) and clinical questionnaire of Berlin. The level of physical activity has been assessed by means of International Physical Activity Questionnaire adapted for the elderly (IPAQ) and Mini-Mental State Examination for cognitive decline. All participants were assessed before and after the 12-week intervention period and, also, the assessors were blind. RESULTS: The IG showed significant improvement in quality of sleep with a mean reduction of 4.9 ± 2.7 points in the overall PSQI (p < 0.01) and in all its 7 components of evaluation (p < 0.05), and improvement of secondary endpoint, daytime sleepiness, a decline of 2.8 ± 2.2 points in the ESS (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that semi-supervised home exercise is effective in improving the quality of sleep and self-referred daytime sleepiness of sedentary elderlies of the community who presented sleep disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Ensaiosclinicos.gov.br process number: RBR-3cqzfy.

Recommendations for the pharmacological treatment of COPD: questions and answers / Recomendações para o tratamento farmacológico da DPOC: perguntas e respostas

ABSTRACT The treatment of COPD has become increasingly effective. Measures that range from behavioral changes, reduction in exposure to risk factors, education about the disease and its course, rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, management of comorbidities, and surgical and pharmacological treatments to end-of-life care allow health professionals to provide a personalized and effective therapy. The pharmacological treatment of COPD is one of the cornerstones of COPD management, and there have been many advances in this area in recent years. Given the greater availability of drugs and therapeutic combinations, it has become increasingly challenging to know the indications for, limitations of, and potential risks and benefits of each treatment modality. In order to critically evaluate recent evidence and systematize the major questions regarding the pharmacological treatment of COPD, 24 specialists from all over Brazil gathered to develop the present recommendations. A visual guide was developed for the classification and treatment of COPD, both of which were adapted to fit the situation in Brazil. Ten questions were selected on the basis of their relevance in clinical practice. They address the classification, definitions, treatment, and evidence available for each drug or drug combination. Each question was answered by two specialists, and then the answers were consolidated in two phases: review and consensus by all participants. The questions answered are practical questions and help select from among the many options the best treatment for each patient and his/her peculiarities.

RESUMO O tratamento da DPOC vem se tornando cada vez mais eficaz. Medidas que envolvem desde mudanças comportamentais, redução de exposições a fatores de risco, educação sobre a doença e seu curso, reabilitação, oxigenoterapia, manejo de comorbidades, tratamentos cirúrgicos e farmacológicos até os cuidados de fim de vida permitem ao profissional oferecer uma terapêutica personalizada e efetiva. O tratamento farmacológico da DPOC constitui um dos principais pilares desse manejo, e muitos avanços têm sido atingidos na área nos últimos anos. Com a maior disponibilidade de medicações e combinações terapêuticas fica cada vez mais desafiador conhecer as indicações, limitações, potenciais riscos e benefícios de cada tratamento. Com o intuito de avaliar criticamente a evidência recente e sistematizar as principais dúvidas referentes ao tratamento farmacológico da DPOC, foram reunidos 24 especialistas de todo o Brasil para elaborar a presente recomendação. Foi elaborado um guia visual para a classificação e tratamento adaptados à nossa realidade. Dez perguntas foram selecionadas pela relevância na prática clínica. Abordam a classificação, definições, tratamento e evidências disponíveis para cada medicação ou combinação. Cada pergunta foi respondida por dois especialistas e depois consolidadas em duas fases: revisão e consenso entre todos os participantes. As questões respondidas são dúvidas práticas e ajudam a selecionar qual o melhor tratamento, entre as muitas opções, para cada paciente com suas particularidades.

Recommendations for the pharmacological treatment of COPD: questions and answers.

The treatment of COPD has become increasingly effective. Measures that range from behavioral changes, reduction in exposure to risk factors, education about the disease and its course, rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, management of comorbidities, and surgical and pharmacological treatments to end-of-life care allow health professionals to provide a personalized and effective therapy. The pharmacological treatment of COPD is one of the cornerstones of COPD management, and there have been many advances in this area in recent years. Given the greater availability of drugs and therapeutic combinations, it has become increasingly challenging to know the indications for, limitations of, and potential risks and benefits of each treatment modality. In order to critically evaluate recent evidence and systematize the major questions regarding the pharmacological treatment of COPD, 24 specialists from all over Brazil gathered to develop the present recommendations. A visual guide was developed for the classification and treatment of COPD, both of which were adapted to fit the situation in Brazil. Ten questions were selected on the basis of their relevance in clinical practice. They address the classification, definitions, treatment, and evidence available for each drug or drug combination. Each question was answered by two specialists, and then the answers were consolidated in two phases: review and consensus by all participants. The questions answered are practical questions and help select from among the many options the best treatment for each patient and his/her peculiarities.

Inflammatory and immunological profiles in patients with COPD: relationship with FEV 1 reversibility.

OBJECTIVE:: To determine whether COPD severity correlates with sputum cell counts, atopy, and asthma. METHODS:: This was a cross-sectional study involving 37 patients with COPD and 22 healthy subjects with normal lung function (controls). Sputum cell counts were determined by microscopy after centrifugation of samples. Skin prick tests were performed, and serum cytokines were determined by ELISA. RESULTS:: Patients were stratified by bronchodilator response: a non-reversible airflow limitation (nonRAL) group comprised 24 patients showing no significant post-bronchodilator change in FEV1; and a partially reversible airflow limitation (partialRAL) group comprised 13 patients showing FEV1 reversibility (post-bronchodilator FEV1 increase ≥ 12%). The proportion of eosinophils in sputum was higher in the partialRAL group than in the nonRAL group (p < 0.01), and there was an inverse correlation between the proportion of eosinophils and FEV1 (p < 0.05). However, none of the patients had a history of asthma and skin prick test results did not differ between the two groups. In the patient sputum samples, neutrophils predominated. Serum levels of TNF, IL-6, IL-8, and RANTES (CCL5) were higher in patients than in controls (p < 0.001) but did not differ between the two patient groups. CONCLUSIONS:: COPD patients with partial FEV1 reversibility appear to have higher sputum eosinophil counts and greater airway hyperresponsiveness than do those with no FEV1 reversibility. However, we found that COPD severity did not correlate with atopy or with the cytokine profile. OBJETIVO:: Determinar se a gravidade da DPOC se correlaciona com a contagem de células no escarro, atopia e asma. MÉTODOS:: Estudo transversal com 37 pacientes com DPOC e 22 indivíduos saudáveis com função pulmonar normal (controles). As contagens de células no escarro foram determinadas por microscopia após a centrifugação das amostras. Foram realizados testes cutâneos de puntura, e as citocinas séricas foram determinadas por ELISA. RESULTADOS:: Os pacientes foram estratificados pela resposta ao broncodilatador: o grupo de limitação ao fluxo aéreo não reversível (LFAnr) envolveu 24 pacientes sem alteração significativa do VEF1 pós-broncodilatador, e o grupo de limitação ao fluxo aéreo parcialmente reversível (LFApr) envolveu 13 pacientes com reversibilidade do VEF1 (aumento do VEF1 pós-broncodilatador ≥ 12%). A proporção de eosinófilos no escarro foi maior no grupo LFApr do que no LFAnr (p < 0,01), e houve uma correlação inversa entre a proporção de eosinófilos e VEF1 (p < 0,05). Entretanto, nenhum dos pacientes apresentou histórico de asma e os resultados dos testes cutâneos não diferiram entre os dois grupos. Nas amostras de escarro dos pacientes, os neutrófilos predominaram. Os níveis séricos de TNF, IL-6, IL-8 e RANTES (CCL5) foram maiores nos pacientes que nos controles (p < 0,001), mas não diferiram entre os dois grupos de pacientes. CONCLUSÕES:: Pacientes com DPOC e reversibilidade parcial do VEF1 parecem apresentar maiores contagens de eosinófilos no escarro e maior hiper-responsividade das vias aéreas que aqueles sem reversibilidade do VEF1. Entretanto, a gravidade da DPOC não se correlacionou com atopia ou perfil das citocinas.

SEGURANÇA E REPRODUTIBILIDADE DO TESTE TIMED UP AND GO EM IDOSOS HOSPITALIZADOS / SAFETY AND REPRODUCIBILITY OF THE TIMED UP AND GO TEST IN HOSPITALIZED ELDERLY / SEGURIDAD Y REPRODUCIBILIDAD DE LA PRUEBA TIMED UP AND GO EN ANCIANOS HOSPITALIZADOS

RESUMO Introdução: Testes físicos seguros e confiáveis são importantes para rastrear risco de queda em idosos, entretanto, não existem estudos que tenham avaliado a segurança e a confiabilidade do teste Timed Up and Go (TUG) em idosos hospitalizados. Objetivos: Avaliar a segurança e reprodutibilidade do TUG em idosos hospitalizados. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal no qual foram coletadas três aferições do TUG para cada idoso, sendo considerado o melhor desempenho em segundos (s). Outras variáveis coletadas foram função cognitiva (MEEM), índice de comorbidades de Charlson, perfil admissional (clínico ou cirúrgico), relato de quedas no último ano e IMC. Para avaliar a confiabilidade relativa utilizou-se o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI) e para a confiabilidade absoluta, a análise de Bland-Altman. Resultados: Foram incluídos 68 idosos com média de idade de 70,4 ± 7,7 anos, índice de Charlson 5,4 ± 2,0 e predomínio do perfil clínico (64,7%). Nenhum dos 204 testes foi interrompido pelos critérios estabelecidos. Houve redução gradativa entre a primeira e a terceira aferição (1a = 11,6 ± 6,54; 2a = 10,7 ± 6,22 e 3a = 10,3 ± 5,54; p = 0,001) e elevado CCI (1a e 2a: CCI = 0,98; 1a e 3a: CCI = 0,98; 2a e 3a: CCI = 0,98; p = 0,001), sendo que a maior correlação com o melhor desempenho foi associada a 3a aferição (CCI = 0,99; p = 0,001). Identificou-se que os menores viés (0,29 s) e limites de concordância (-1,1 a 1,68 s) ocorreram também entre a terceira aferição e a de melhor desempenho. A medida de erro do método para avaliação da variabilidade foi 0,5 s e a alteração clinicamente significante 3,4 s. Conclusão: O TUG foi um instrumento seguro e com boa reprodutibilidade para mensuração do desempenho físico em idosos hospitalizados.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Safe and reliable physical tests are important to identify risk of falling in the elderly. However, there are no studies that have evaluated the safety and reliability of the test Timed Up and Go (TUG) in hospitalized elderly. Objectives: To evaluate the safety and reproducibility of the TUG in hospitalized elderly. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study where three measurements of the TUG were collected for each elderly, being considered the best performance in seconds (sec). Other variables collected were cognitive function (MMSE), Charlson comorbidity index, admission profile (clinical or surgical), history of falls in the last year and BMI. To assess the relative reliability we used the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and for the absolute reliability we used the Bland-Altman analysis. Results: The study included 68 elderly with a mean age 70.4 ± 7.7 years, Charlson index 5.4 ± 2.0 and prevalence of clinical profile (64.7%). None of the 204 tests was interrupted by the established criteria. There was a gradual reduction between the first and third measurement (1st = 11.6 ± 6.54; 2nd = 10.7 ± 6.22 and 3rd = 10.3 ± 5.54; p = 0.001) and high ICC (1st and 2nd: ICC = 0.98; 1st and 3rd: ICC = 0.98; 2nd and 3rd: ICC = 0.98; p = 0.001), and the highest correlation with the best performance was associated with third measurement (ICC = 0.99; p = 0.001). We identified that the smallest bias (0.29 sec) and limits of concordance (-1.1 to 1.68 sec) also occurred between the third measurement and the best performance. The measure of the method error to evaluate the variability was 0.5 sec, and the clinically significant change was 3.4 sec. Conclusion: The TUG was a safe instrument with good reproducibility for measuring physical performance in hospitalized elderly.

RESUMEN Introducción: Pruebas físicas seguras y fiables son importantes para el rastreo del riesgo de caídas en los ancianos; sin embargo, no existen estudios que evaluaron la seguridad y la fiabilidad de la prueba Timed Up and Go (TUG) en ancianos hospitalizados. Objetivos: Evaluar la seguridad y fiabilidad del TUG en ancianos hospitalizados. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio transversal en el que se recogieron tres mediciones del TUG para cada anciano y se considera el mejor rendimiento en segundos (s). Otras variables recogidas fueron la función cognitiva (MMSE), el índice de comorbilidad de Charlson, perfil de ingreso hospitalario (clínico o quirúrgico), antecedentes de caídas en el último año y el IMC. Para evaluar la fiabilidad relativa se utilizó el coeficiente de correlación intraclase (CCI) y para la fiabilidad absoluta, el análisis de Bland-Altman. Resultados: Se incluyeron 68 ancianos con una edad media de 70,4 ± 7,7 años, índice de Charlson 5,4 ± 2,0 y prevalencia del perfil clínico (64,7%). Ninguna de las 204 pruebas fue interrumpida por los criterios establecidos. Hubo una reducción gradual entre la primera y tercera medición (1a = 11,6 ± 6,54, 2a = 10,7 ± 6,22 y 3a = 10,3 ± 5,54, p = 0,001) y CCI alto (1a y 2a: CCI = 0,98; 1a y 3a: CCI = 0,98; 2a y 3a: CCI = 0,98; p = 0,001), y la más alta correlación con el mejor rendimiento se asoció con la tercera medición (ICC = 0,99; p = 0,001). Se identificó que el sesgo más pequeño (0,29 s) y límites de concordancia (-1,1 a 1,68 s) también se produjo entre la tercera medición y el mejor rendimiento. La medición del error del método para la evaluación de la variabilidad fue de 0,5 s y el cambio clínicamente significativo fue 3,4 s. Conclusión: El TUG fue un instrumento seguro y reproducible para medir el rendimiento físico en ancianos hospitalizados.

Inflammatory and immunological profiles in patients with COPD: relationship with FEV 1 reversibility / Perfil inflamatório e imunológico em pacientes com DPOC: relação com a reversibilidade do VEF 1

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine whether COPD severity correlates with sputum cell counts, atopy, and asthma. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 37 patients with COPD and 22 healthy subjects with normal lung function (controls). Sputum cell counts were determined by microscopy after centrifugation of samples. Skin prick tests were performed, and serum cytokines were determined by ELISA. Results: Patients were stratified by bronchodilator response: a non-reversible airflow limitation (nonRAL) group comprised 24 patients showing no significant post-bronchodilator change in FEV1; and a partially reversible airflow limitation (partialRAL) group comprised 13 patients showing FEV1 reversibility (post-bronchodilator FEV1 increase ≥ 12%). The proportion of eosinophils in sputum was higher in the partialRAL group than in the nonRAL group (p < 0.01), and there was an inverse correlation between the proportion of eosinophils and FEV1 (p < 0.05). However, none of the patients had a history of asthma and skin prick test results did not differ between the two groups. In the patient sputum samples, neutrophils predominated. Serum levels of TNF, IL-6, IL-8, and RANTES (CCL5) were higher in patients than in controls (p < 0.001) but did not differ between the two patient groups. Conclusions: COPD patients with partial FEV1 reversibility appear to have higher sputum eosinophil counts and greater airway hyperresponsiveness than do those with no FEV1 reversibility. However, we found that COPD severity did not correlate with atopy or with the cytokine profile.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar se a gravidade da DPOC se correlaciona com a contagem de células no escarro, atopia e asma. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 37 pacientes com DPOC e 22 indivíduos saudáveis com função pulmonar normal (controles). As contagens de células no escarro foram determinadas por microscopia após a centrifugação das amostras. Foram realizados testes cutâneos de puntura, e as citocinas séricas foram determinadas por ELISA. Resultados: Os pacientes foram estratificados pela resposta ao broncodilatador: o grupo de limitação ao fluxo aéreo não reversível (LFAnr) envolveu 24 pacientes sem alteração significativa do VEF1 pós-broncodilatador, e o grupo de limitação ao fluxo aéreo parcialmente reversível (LFApr) envolveu 13 pacientes com reversibilidade do VEF1 (aumento do VEF1 pós-broncodilatador ≥ 12%). A proporção de eosinófilos no escarro foi maior no grupo LFApr do que no LFAnr (p < 0,01), e houve uma correlação inversa entre a proporção de eosinófilos e VEF1 (p < 0,05). Entretanto, nenhum dos pacientes apresentou histórico de asma e os resultados dos testes cutâneos não diferiram entre os dois grupos. Nas amostras de escarro dos pacientes, os neutrófilos predominaram. Os níveis séricos de TNF, IL-6, IL-8 e RANTES (CCL5) foram maiores nos pacientes que nos controles (p < 0,001), mas não diferiram entre os dois grupos de pacientes. Conclusões: Pacientes com DPOC e reversibilidade parcial do VEF1 parecem apresentar maiores contagens de eosinófilos no escarro e maior hiper-responsividade das vias aéreas que aqueles sem reversibilidade do VEF1. Entretanto, a gravidade da DPOC não se correlacionou com atopia ou perfil das citocinas.