Small airway tests in AECOPD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Prospective observational pilot study to assess the utility and acceptability of tests of small airways function during acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD).
IRAS ID
295812
Contact name
Elizabeth Sapey
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Spirometry has been the main monitoring tool for research purposes during exacerbations. However, this forced respiratory manoeuvre is tiring for people to perform, variable even during stable COPD and not sensitive to change over time. In recent years, there has been interest in the study of small airways (defined as those with an internal diameter of < 2mm) function in COPD.
Studies have confirmed a decrease in diameter of the small airways in smokers with established airflow obstruction and that pathological changes in the small airways relate to expiratory airflow obstruction. This has led to the concept that tests of small airways function may be more sensitive to changes in airways inflammation than spirometry . Some tests of small airways function (SAF) involve passive, quiet breathing and these might be more acceptable to patients, particularly during an exacerbation. Forced Oscillometry (FOT) is a method for assessing airway mechanics using gentle breathing. Studies indicate that FOT is altered in stable COPD and may also be a useful tool for monitoring COPD patients during exacerbation but studies to date have been small and therefore this technique needs further evaluation
We will conduct a prospective observational pilot study to assess the feasibility and acceptability of tests of SAF (FOT) and spirometry in patients with an exacerbation of COPD. To start to explore whether there are differences in SAF depending on the type of exacerbation, we will also collect pilot data about potential causes including sputum microbiology, inflammation in the blood and lung secretions.
The study will last for 18 months with each person taking part for a maximum of 7 weeks. The study will include data collection ideally at four-time points. However, this is a pragmatic study, and data will be collected if and when possible, with missing scheduled events documented with the reasons for this.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 1
REC reference
21/ES/0101
Date of REC Opinion
8 Dec 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion