FACTORS AFFECTING THE FREQUENCY OF EXACERBATIONS IN ADULT PATIENTS WITH BRONCHIECTASIS

Abstract

The aim: This study aims to determine specific predictive factors of bronchiectasis exacerbations. Materials and methods: 47 patients with bronchiectasis were prospectively recruited into the study in Dnipro, Ukraine. Following the number of exacerbations during the previous year, they were divided into two groups: frequent exacerbators - ≥ 3 cases per year (n = 24) and non-frequent exacerbators - < 3 cases per year (n = 23). Demographic and anthropometric data, medical history, smoking status, shortness of breath by Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, sputum culture, respiratory function by computed spirometry, disease severity by Bronchiectasis Severity index and FACED scales were evaluated in both groups. Results: The factors found to be independently associated with frequent exacerbations were: overweight, airway obstruction, longer duration of the disease, more severe dyspnea, greater number of involved pulmonary lobes and presence of one or more comorbid conditions. Non-influencing factors were: underweight, age, sex, smoking status and, unexpectedly, presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa or other pathogens in sputum culture. Conclusions: Particular attention is required for patients with bronchiectasis who have overweight, airway obstruction, longer duration of the disease, more severe dyspnea, the greater number of involved pulmonary lobes and presence of one or more comorbid conditions in order to correct modifiable risk factors of future exacerbations.