A study of factors associated with raised C reactive protein levels in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background: C-reactive protein (CRP) is used to predict the prognosis of patients with COPD. It has been observed that the degree of obstruction in the airflow is related with the levels of CRP.Objective: To study factors associated with raised C reactive protein (CRP) levels in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseaseMaterials and Methods: The present study was Hospital based cross-sectional study among 47 subjects with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Detailed history, thorough clinical examination was carried out. Body mass index (BMI), Six minute walk distance test (6MWD) was performed, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV% Pred), arterial oxygen tension (PaO) and smoking status (no. of pack years) was assessed for subjectsResults: The prevalence of raised CRP was significantly more in those with 6MWD with <450>450 meters. The prevalence of raised CRP was significantly more in those with FEV% Predicted <30>0.05)Conclusion: Serum CRP levels were significantly associated with 6MWD test, BMI, FEV% Predicted and PaOin patients with stable COPD. But it was not associated with smoking.