Prediction of severity of COPD based on red cell distribution width value

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of obstructive lung disease characterized by long-term poor airflow. Tobacco smoking is the most common cause of COPD, with a number of other factors such as air pollution and genetics playing a smaller role. Objectives: The objective of the study is to predict severity of COPD based on RDW value. Material & Methods: This Retrospective study included total 385 COPD patients. Demographic features, BODE index factors and oxygen saturation were recorded. Survival analysis of all patients was performed. Measured RDW values at the time of the inclusion were evaluated. Results: Mean age of the patients was 67.2 ± 9.6 years. Distribution of the COPD stages of the patients were stage 1: 16%, stage 2: 52%, stage 3: 26%, stage 4: 6%. RDW was found significantly different between stages. The highest RDW was observed in the very severe stage (p < 0.001). Median of BODE index was 1 (0---3). As the BODE index increased RDW also increased (p < 0.001). When the patients were grouped according to the laboratory upper limit of RDW, survival rate was 31% in the RDW >14.3% group and 75% in the RDW <14.3% group. Conclusions: From our study we would like to conclude that increased level of RDW might be related with increased mortality in COPD patients.