High value of combined serum C-reactive protein and BODE score for mortality prediction in patients with stable COPD.

INTRODUCTION Both BODE score (body mass index, degree of airflow obstruction, functional dyspnea, and exercise capacity) and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) are validated predictors of mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study is to investigate the predictive value of combined serum CRP and BODE score for mortality in COPD patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS A cohort of 114 clinically stable COPD patients was assessed for predictors of longitudinal mortality. Variables included age, gender, current smoking status, pack-years, maximal inspiratory/expiratory pressure, BODE score (body mass index, degree of airflow obstruction, functional dyspnea, and exercise capacity), serum CRP, and fibrinogen. Predictors were assessed by Cox proportional hazards regression model. Survival was estimated by Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. RESULTS Serum CRP (P=0.005; HR=1.042; 95% CI=1.019-1.066) and BODE score (P=0.032; HR=1.333; 95% CI=1.025-1.734) were independent predictors of survival in the multivariate analysis. The cumulative survival rates of COPD patients were sorted from the worst to the best as following: serum CRP >3mg/L & quartile 3-4; serum CRP >3mg/L & quartile 1-2; serum CRP ≤3mg/L & quartile 3-4; serum CRP ≤3mg/L & quartile 1-2 (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Serum CRP and BODE score are independent predictors of survival in stable COPD patients. Combination of serum CRP and BODE score has higher predictive value in clinical practice.