Blood eosinophil level in COPD patients depending on different risk factors

In GOLD recommendations, the level of blood eosinophils acquires special significance in the treatment choice. <bold>Aim:</bold> To analyze the level of eosinophils in the blood of COPD patients depending on various risk factors. <bold>Materials and methods:</bold> 45 COPD patients were selected for the study, 95.6% male, with an average age of 54±7 years and an average FEV1 of 65,3±2,4. They were divided into three comparable groups: 1st group - non-smokers who work in hazardous conditions (coal miners, metallurgists, etc.), 2nd group – smokers without harmful work factors, 3rd group - smokers who work in hazardous conditions. <bold>Results:</bold> The average level of eosinophils in patients of all three groups did not exceed the reference values. However, we observed the highest level of eosinophils in smokers with hazardous work conditions - 3.9%. The 1st group (non-smokers working in hazardous environments) took second place with an average eosinophil level of 2.3%. The lowest eosinophil level (2.1%) was observed in smokers without hazardous work, p < 0,01.<graphic xlink:href="graphics/73771/0_Figure1.jpg" /> <bold>Conclusion:</bold> A significant increase in the eosinophils level was observed in patients who have a combination of risk factors (who smoke and work in hazardous conditions). Since the second place set the non-smokers with occupational risk factors, it can be assumed that hazardous working conditions significantly influence the level of eosinophils. We should consider this when prescribing treatment for COPD.