Left ventricular dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of LV dysfunction is probably high in COPD patients because this condition shares common risk factors. The diagnosis of left heart failure is difficultin the early phases of COPD and also during exacerbation due to similarities in signs and symptoms. Bio-markers like hsCRP is found to be elevated in stable phase as well as in exacerbation of COPD. Objectives: To assess LV Dysfunction (Systolic and Diastolic) and to correlate Age, Symptoms, Duration and stage of illness, CRP with LV Dysfunction. Methods: Total 100 patients of which 50 were age and sex matched controls not having COPD complying with Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria. After taking history and clinical examination they were evaluated for COPD and Left ventricular Dysfunction using PFT and Echocardiogram. Results: Out of 50 patients, 37 patients (74%) had Diastolic dysfunction, of them 2 patients had Systolic dysfunction also. 13 patients were normal. In the control group only 4 had Diastolic Dysfuncion.CRP was high in 35% (70%) of patients. In the higher age group of 50-60 years Diastolic dysfunction was significant. In patients of GOLD stage IV 5 out of 5 patients (100%) whereas in GOLD stage I and II it was in 1 case (16.66%) and21 case (80.76%) respectively. While comparing with the control group incidence of LV dysfunction parameters and CRP is more in case group. Conclusion: There is increased incidence ofLV Diastolic dysfunction and also with advanced GOLD stage. CRP also correlates well LVDD. Therefore it is pertinent to explore LVDD in all patients with acute exacerbation of COPD and advanced disease stage.