Nebulized Potassium-Conjugated Linoleic Acid (K-CLA) Therapy in a Patient With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Centrilobular Emphysema: A Case Report

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airflow limitation that commonly causes dyspnea and reduced exercise capacity. Emphysema, a major component of COPD, involves destruction of alveolar tissue and loss of elastic recoil, resulting in impaired gas exchange and air trapping. We report a 60-year-old female with COPD and centrilobular emphysema who underwent nebulized potassium-conjugated linoleic acid (K-CLA) therapy for persistent dyspnea and exercise intolerance despite standard inhaled therapy. Following two months of treatment, the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score improved from 23 to 7; the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea grade improved from 2 to 0; Borg Dyspnea and Fatigue scores improved substantially following exertion; and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) distance increased from 1,345 ft to 1,410 ft. Pulmonary function testing demonstrated mild improvement in FEV1 and the FEV1/FVC ratio without bronchodilator responsiveness. Residual volume (RV) increased, although spirometry-derived estimates of RV should be interpreted cautiously and require confirmation with more definitive lung-volume measurements. No adverse respiratory effects or oxygen desaturation occurred during therapy. These findings suggest potential symptomatic benefits and support further controlled investigation of nebulized K-CLA therapy in obstructive airway disease.