Correlation between FEV1 and Polycythemia in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is linked with progressive but not fully reversible airflow obstruction. Spirometry is the gold standard test for diagnosis of COPD with FEV1/FVC <70%. Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) is used to divide COPD severity into different categories. Objective: To determine the correlation between FEV1 and polycythemia in COPD. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Pulmonology, Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH), Peshawar, from September 2021 to March 2022. After taking written approval from CPSP, all COPD patients of the Medical and Pulmonology Unit of KTH Peshawar fulfilling the inclusion criteria were assessed. Written informed consent was taken from all study patients. On arrival, a detailed history was taken, followed by a physical examination with a special focus on the presence of polycythemia. Data was analysed by SPSS version 23. Results: Out of total 140 patients, the majority (60.3%) were females. The mean age was 54.93 (± 9.31) years, while the mean duration of COPD was 7.57 (± 3.42) years. The mean BMI was 27.27 (± 4.08) Kg/m . Polycythemia was observed in these 11 (08%) patients. By applying the Chi-square test, there was no statistically significant association between FEV1 and polycythemia (p = 0.69). On Pearson coefficient correlation, there was no significant correlation between FEVI and polycythemia (rr = 0.08, p = 0.34). Conclusion: COPD is an important health issue that can lead to a number of complications, including polycythemia. FEV1 has no significant association with polycythemia. However, earlier screening for polycythemia is recommended to avoid the sequalae of this complication in patients with COPD.