Determining Factors of Distance During 6-Minutes Walk Test in COPD Patients

Abstract

In stable COPD, identify and analyze the factors determining six minutes walking distance and dyspnea the end of the test. Patients were evaluated by test of lung function. St Georeges respiratoiry questionnaire (SGRQ) and 6 MWT with inspiratory capacity measurements (IC) continuous oxymetry. Eigthty-two patients (mean FEV 1 : 56±19% predicted) were studied. Mean 6minutes walking distance was 477 ± 89m (72 ± 14PV). Walking distance during 6MWT(m) was correlated with FEV 1 , CI/TLC ratio, TLC, pré-test CI and DLCO/VA. When expressed as percent of predicted values, walking distance was correlated with FRC, pre-test IC and SGRQ activity score. End test dyspnea was correlated with FRC, pré-test dyspnea and SGRQ activity and total scores. The factors determining 6-minutes walking distance and end-test dyspnea are complex and include both functional and non functional factors. In COPD, 6MWT is thus an investigation that has additional integrative value.