Hypoxia Enhances Oxidative Stress in Neutrophils from ZZ Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Patients.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a neutrophilic inflammatory disorder that may result in local hypoxia, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) production, and increased damage in adjacent tissues. This study aims to determine the impact of hypoxia on neutrophil oxidative stress profile in AATD patients. Neutrophils were isolated from AATD patients and control volunteers and exposed to hypoxia (1% O2 for 4 h), ROS/RNS, mitochondrial parameters, and non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses measured by flow cytometry. The expression of enzymatic antioxidant defenses was determined by qRT-PCR. Our results indicate that ZZ-AATD neutrophils produce higher amounts of hydrogen peroxide, peroxynitrite, and nitric oxide and decreased levels of the antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase. Likewise, our results show a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, indicating that this organelle could be involved in the production of the reactive species observed. No decrease in glutathione and thiol levels were observed. The accumulation of substances with high oxidative capacity would explain the greater oxidative damage observed in proteins and lipids. In conclusion, our results indicate that, compared to MM control individuals, ZZ-AATD neutrophils show increased ROS/RNS production under hypoxic conditions opening a new rationale for using antioxidant therapies to treat the disease.

Risk Factors of Poor Outcomes after Admission for a COPD Exacerbation: Multivariate Logistic Predictive Models.

The aim of this study was to identify a multivariate model to predict poor outcomes after admission for exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  We performed a multicenter, observational, prospective study. Patients admitted to hospital for COPD were followed up for 3 months. Relevant clinical variables at admission were selected. For each variable, the best cut-offs for the risk of poor outcome were identified using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Finally, a stepwise logistic regression model was performed. A total of 106 patients with a mean age of 71.1 (9.8) years were included. The mean maximum expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1)(%) was 45.2%, and the mean COPD assessment test (CAT) score at admission was 24.8 (7.1). At 3 months, 39 (36.8%) patients demonstrated poor outcomes: death (2.8%), readmission (20.8%) or new exacerbation (13.2%). Variables included in the logistic model were: previous hospital admission, FEV1 < 45%, Charlson ≥ 3, hemoglobin (Hb)<13 g/L, PCO2 ≥ 46 mmHg, fibrinogen ≥ 554 g/L, C-reactive protein (CRP)≥45 mg/L, leukocyte count < 9810 × 109/L, purulent sputum, long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) and CAT ≥ 31 at admission. The final model showed that Hb < 13 g/L (OR = 2.46, 95%CI 1.09-6.36), CRP ≥ 45 mg/L (OR = 2.91, 95%CI: 1.11-7.49) and LTOT (3.07, 95%CI: 1.07-8.82) increased the probability of poor outcome up to 82.4%. Adding a CAT ≥ 31 at admission increased the probability to 91.6% (AUC = 0.75; p = 0.001). Up to 36.8% of COPD patients had a poor outcome within 3 months after hospital discharge, with low hemoglobin and high CRP levels being the risk factors for poor outcome. A high CAT at admission increased the predictive value of the model.

Factors Associated with Depression in COPD: A Multicenter Study.

INTRODUCTION: Depression is a prevalent comorbidity in COPD and has an impact on the prognosis of these patients, thereby making it important to study the factors associated with depression in patients with COPD. METHOD: A multicenter, observational and cross-sectional study was conducted to study the factors associated with depression in patients with COPD measured by the hospital anxiety and depression (HAD) questionnaire. We analyzed anthropometric variables and the number of exacerbations in the previous year and calculated the 6-min walking test and the body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise (BODE) index. All the patients completed the quality of life EQ-5D and the LCADL physical activity questionnaires. The relationship of these variables with depression was evaluated with two multiple logistic regression models. RESULTS: One hundred fifteen patients were evaluated (93 % male) with a mean age of 66.9 years (SD 8.8) and a mean FEV1 % of 44.4 % (SD 15.7 %). 24.3 % presented symptoms of depression (HAD-D > 8). These latter patients had worse lung function, greater dyspnea, reduced exercise capacity, a higher score in the BODE index, poorer quality of life, reduced physical activity, and more exacerbations. In the first logistic regression model, quality of life and the BODE index were associated with depression (AUC: 0.84; 0.74-0.94). In the second model including the variables in the BODE index, quality of life and dyspnea measured with the MRC scale (AUC: 0.87; 0.79-0.95) were associated with depression. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly one-quarter of the patients with COPD in this study presented clinically significant depression associated with worse quality of life, reduced exercise capacity, greater dyspnea, and a higher score in the BODE index.

The CAT (COPD Assessment Test) questionnaire as a predictor of the evolution of severe COPD exacerbations.

INTRODUCTION: Since exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) cause both a great impact on the progression of the disease and generate high health expenditures, there is a need to develop tools to evaluate their prognosis. METHOD: Multicenter, observational, prospective study that evaluated the prognostic utility of the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) in severe exacerbations of COPD. Anthropometric and clinical variables were analyzed: smoking, history of exacerbations during the previous year, drug treatment, degree of baseline dyspnea, comorbidities; laboratory variables at admission (complete blood count, arterial blood gas and biochemistry) and CAT scores in the first 24 h of admission, on the third day, at discharge and at 3 months. RESULTS: We evaluated 106 patients (91 males) with a mean age of 71.1 (SD 9.8 years), mean FEV1 45.2% (14.7%) and average CAT score at admission of 24.7 points (7.1). At three months after discharge, treatment failure was observed in 39 (36.8%) patients: 14 (13.2%) presented an exacerbation without the need for hospital admission, 22 were readmitted (20.8%) and 3 (2.8%) died during follow-up. The three factors associated with increased risk of failure were a reduction less than 4 units in the CAT at discharge compared to admission, lower hemoglobin levels and treatment with domiciliary oxygen. CONCLUSIONS: A change of ≤4 points in the CAT score at discharge compared to that obtained at admission due to a severe exacerbation of COPD, helps to predict therapeutic failure such as a new exacerbation, readmission or death in the subsequent three months.

Consistencia interna y validez de la versión española del cuestionario de calidad de vida específico para el síndrome de apnea del sueño: Sleep Apnoea Quality of Life Index / Internal Consistency and Validity of the Spanish Version of the Quality of Life Questionnaire Specific for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index

Introducción: El objetivo del presente estudio fue validar la versión española del Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index (SAQLI), cuestionario de calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) específico para el síndrome de apneas-hipopneas del sueño (SAHS), y evaluar su sensibilidad al cambio. Material y métodos: Estudio multicéntrico en un grupo de pacientes diagnosticados de SAHS (índice de apnea/hipopnea [IAH] ≥5) enviados a las unidades de sueño. En todos los pacientes se administraron los cuestionarios: SF-36, FOSQ, SAQLI y test de Epworth. Se evaluaron las propiedades psicométricas (consistencia interna, validez de constructo, validez concurrente, validez predictora, fiabilidad test-retest y sensibilidad al cambio) del cuestionario SAQLI (4 dominios: funcionamiento diario, interacciones sociales, funcionamiento emocional y síntomas; dispone de un quinto opcional: síntomas relacionados con el tratamiento). Resultados: Se incluyeron 162 pacientes (media de edad: 58±12 años; Epworth: 10±4; IMC: 33±5,9kg m−2; IAH: 37±15h−1). El análisis factorial mostró un constructo de 4 factores, distribuidos de manera similar a los dominios del cuestionario original. La consistencia interna (alfa de Cronbach entre 0,78 y 0,82 para los distintos dominios), la validez concurrente con respecto al SF-36, Epworth y FOSQ, así como la fiabilidad test-retest, fueron adecuadas. La validez predictora del cuestionario no mostró correlaciones significativas por gravedad de SAHS. El SAQLI mostró una buena sensibilidad al cambio en todos los dominios que componen el cuestionario (p<0,01). Conclusiones: La versión española del SAQLI presenta características psicométricas adecuadas para su utilización en pacientes con SAHS y es sensible al cambio(AU)

Introduction: The objective of the present study was to validate the Spanish version of the SAQLI, which is a health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaire specific for sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS), and to assess its sensitivity to change. Material and methods: A multicenter study performed in a group of patients with SAHS (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥5) who had been referred to the centers’ Sleep Units. All patients completed the following questionnaires: SF-36, FOSQ, SAQLI and Epworth scale. The psychometric properties (internal consistency, construct validity, concurrent validity, predictive value, repeatability and responsiveness to change) of the SAQLI were assessed (four domains: daily function, social interactions, emotional function and symptoms; an optional fifth domain is treatment-related symptoms). Results: One hundred sixty-two patients were included for study (mean age: 58±12; Epworth: 10±4; BMI: 33±5.9kg m−2; AHI: 37±15hour−1). The factorial analysis showed a construct of four factors with similar distribution to the original questionnaire domains. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha between 0.78 and 0.82 for the different domains), concurrent validity for SF-36, Epworth scale and FOSQ, and test-retest reliability were appropriate. The predictive validity of the questionnaire showed no significant correlations with the severity of SAHS. SAQLI showed good sensitivity to change in all the domains of the questionnaire (p<0,01). Conclusions: The Spanish version of the SAQLI is a valid HRQL measurement with appropriate psychometric properties for use in patients with SAHS and it is sensitive to change(AU)

Factors associated with high healthcare resource utilisation among COPD patients.

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) places a huge economic burden on healthcare systems, especially patients with frequent exacerbations and co-morbidities. OBJECTIVES: To identify factors associated with high utilisation of healthcare resources in a population of patients with COPD. METHOD: We conducted an observational, cross-sectional, multicentre study with the aim of identifying the factors associated with high resource utilisation among patients with COPD. Sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics of the study population, as well as data on health-related quality of life, respiratory symptoms, presence of anxiety and depression, physical activity and lung function were collected. We examined the relationship between these variables and high utilisation of healthcare resources, by performing a multivariate analysis based on a logistic regression model. RESULTS: 115 patients (64 were high users of healthcare resources, and 51 control patients) from 13 hospitals were selected. Patients presenting high resource utilisation had worse FEV1, worse basal SpO2, less distance walked in the 6-minute walk test, and increased dyspnoea. They also had a worse BODE index, worse scores in all dimensions of the EURO-QOL 5D and the LCADL scale, and displayed a higher prevalence of depression. Multivariate analysis yielded a statistically significant association between SpO2, LCADL scores, serum fibrinogen values and total leukocyte count, and high healthcare resource utilisation. CONCLUSIONS: COPD patients who incur higher healthcare resource utilisation show reduced physical activity, increased respiratory failure and increased systemic inflammation.

Internal consistency and validity of the Spanish version of the quality of life questionnaire specific for obstructive sleep apnea: sleep apnea quality of life index.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of the present study was to validate the Spanish version of the SAQLI, which is a health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaire specific for sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS), and to assess its sensitivity to change. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A multicenter study performed in a group of patients with SAHS (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥5) who had been referred to the centers' Sleep Units. All patients completed the following questionnaires: SF-36, FOSQ, SAQLI and Epworth scale. The psychometric properties (internal consistency, construct validity, concurrent validity, predictive value, repeatability and responsiveness to change) of the SAQLI were assessed (four domains: daily function, social interactions, emotional function and symptoms; an optional fifth domain is treatment-related symptoms). RESULTS: One hundred sixty-two patients were included for study (mean age: 58±12; Epworth: 10±4; BMI: 33±5.9kg m(-2); AHI: 37±15hour(-1)). The factorial analysis showed a construct of four factors with similar distribution to the original questionnaire domains. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha between 0.78 and 0.82 for the different domains), concurrent validity for SF-36, Epworth scale and FOSQ, and test-retest reliability were appropriate. The predictive validity of the questionnaire showed no significant correlations with the severity of SAHS. SAQLI showed good sensitivity to change in all the domains of the questionnaire (p<0,01). CONCLUSIONS: The Spanish version of the SAQLI is a valid HRQL measurement with appropriate psychometric properties for use in patients with SAHS and it is sensitive to change.

Traducción y adaptación al castellano del cuestionario de calidad de vida relacionado con el síndrome de apnea-hipopnea del sueño Quebec Sleep Questionnaire / Translation and adaptation to Spanish language of the quality of life questionnaire for sleep apnea-hipopnea syndrome Quebec Sleep Questionnaire

Fundamento y objetivo: El objetivo del estudio es realizar la traducción y adaptación al castellano del cuestionario Quebec Sleep Questionnaire (QSQ). Método: Para la adaptación transcultural del QSQ se ha utilizado la técnica de retrotraducción. Un psicólogo y un neumólogo hicieron una primera traducción del cuestionario. Se puntuó de forma independiente la naturalidad/corrección de los ítems y la equivalencia conceptual y se pasó el cuestionario a un grupo de pacientes. Se remitió al autor una retrotraducción al inglés. Resultados: La mayoría de los ítems tuvieron una dificultad mínima en la traducción. Tan solo en 4 de ellos (ítems 2, 7, 8, 30) la dificultad fue moderada. La naturalidad/corrección fue máxima en casi todos los ítems excepto en 4 que, sin embargo, era excelente (de 8 a 9 puntos). La equivalencia conceptual fue completa en todos menos en el ítem 2, en el que fue parcialmente equivalente. Conclusiones: Se ha realizado la primera traducción y adaptación al castellano del cuestionario de calidad de vida QSQ. La traducción tiene una dificultad mínima y su equivalencia conceptual es prácticamente completa (AU)

Background and objective: The objective of this study was to translate and adapt to Spanish the Québec Sleep Questionnaire (QSQ).Methods: For QSQ tran-cultural adaptation, the back-translation technique was used. A psychologist and a pneumonologist made a first translation of the questionnaire. Naturalness-correctness of items and conceptual equivalence were evaluated by external researchers and a group of patients. A back-translation was finally remitted to author. Results: Most of the items had minimal difficulty in translation. The difficulty was moderate in only 4 of them (items 2, 7, 8, 30). Naturalness-correctness was maximal in most items and excellent in 4 (8 to 9 points). The conceptual equivalence was complete in all the items, except item 2 that showed a partial equivalence. Conclusions: The first translation and adaptation to Spanish language of the quality of life questionnaire QSQ has been done. The translation has minimal difficulty and the conceptual equivalence is almost complete (AU)

Consistencia interna y validez de la versión española del cuestionario de calidad de vida específico para el síndrome de apneas-hipopneas del sueño Quebec Sleep Questionnaire / Internal Consistency and Validity of the Spanish Version of the "Quebec Sleep Questionnaire" Quality-of-Life Questionnaire for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Introducción: No existe ningún cuestionario específico de calidad de vida validado en castellano para su uso en pacientes con síndrome de apneas-hipopneas durante el sueño (SAHS). El objetivo del presente estudio fue validar la versión castellana del Quebec Sleep Questionnaire (QSQ). Material y métodos: Estudio multicéntrico en un grupo de pacientes diagnosticados de SAHS (IAH≥5) enviados a las Unidades de Sueño. En todos los pacientes se administraron los cuestionarios: SF-36, FOSQ, QSQ y test de Epworth. Se evaluaron las propiedades psicométricas (consistencia interna, validez de constructo, validez concurrente, validez predictora, fiabilidad test-retest y sensibilidad al cambio) del cuestionario QSQ (32 ítems en cinco dominios: somnolencia diurna, síntomas diurnos, síntomas nocturnos, emociones e interacciones sociales). Resultados: Se incluyeron 121 pacientes (edad media: 57±13 años; Epworth: 9±4; IMC 28±3kg·m−2 e IAH 36±20h−1). El análisis factorial mostró un constructo de cinco factores, distribuidos de manera similar a los dominios del cuestionario original. Tanto la consistencia interna (alfa de Cronbach entre 0,78 y 0,93 para los distintos dominios), la validez concurrente con respecto al SF-36, Epworth y FOSQ, la validez predictora de gravedad del SAHS, como la fiabilidad test-retest fueron adecuadas. El QSQ mostró una buena sensibilidad al cambio en los dominios relativos a los síntomas diurnos (p=0,003) y nocturnos (p=0,02). Conclusiones: La versión española del QSQ presenta unas características psicométricas adecuadas para su utilización en pacientes con SAHS, así como una sensibilidad al cambio significativa en los dominios de síntomas(AU)

Introduction: There is no specific health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaire that has been validated in Spanish for its use in patients with sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS). The objective of the present study was to validate the Spanish version of the Quebec Sleep Questionnaire (QSQ). Patients and methods: A multi-center study including a group of patients with SAHS (AHI≥5) referred to the Sleep Unit. All patients completed the following questionnaires: SF-36, FOSQ, QSQ and Epworth scale. Internal consistency, construct validity, concurrent validity, predictive validity, repeatability and responsiveness to change of the QSQ (32 items in five domains: daytime sleepiness, diurnal symptoms, nocturnal symptoms, emotions, and social interactions) were assessed. Results: A hundred twenty one patients were included in the study (mean age: 57±13; mean Epworth: 9±4; mean Body Mass Index (BMI): 28±3kg·m−2 and mean AHI: 36±20hour−1). The factorial analysis showed a construct of five factors with similar distribution to the original questionnaire domains. Internal consistency (Cranach's alpha between 0.78 and 0.93 for the different domains), concurrent validity (compared to SF-36, Epworth scale and FOSQ), predictive validity of SAHS severity and test-retest reliability were appropriate. The test showed good responsiveness to change in diurnal (P=.003) and nocturnal symptoms domains (P=.02). Conclusions: The Spanish version of the QSQ is a valid HRQL measure with appropriate psychometric properties for use in patients with SAHS and is responsive to change in symptoms domains(AU)

Factores asociados a la hospitalización por exacerbación de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica / Factors associated with hospital admission for exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Introducción: Las exacerbaciones de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) que precisan ingreso hospitalario tienen un gran impacto en la progresión de la enfermedad y generan un alto gasto sanitario. Método: Se trata de un estudio observacional, multicéntrico y transversal, con el objetivo de identificar los factores asociados a las hospitalizaciones por exacerbaciones de la EPOC. Se obtuvieron variables sociodemográficas, antropométricas, de calidad de vida, síntomas respiratorios, presencia de ansiedad y depresión, actividad física y pruebas de función pulmonar. Se analizó su asociación con el ingreso hospitalario mediante análisis multivariante con un modelo de regresión logística. Resultados: Se analizaron 127 pacientes, 50 (39%) de los cuales habían sido hospitalizados. El 93,7% fueron hombres, con una edad media de 67 años (DE=9) y un FEV1 del 41,9% (DE=15,3). En el primer modelo obtenido, la SpO2 basal, el índice BODE y las visitas a urgencias se asociaron con el ingreso, y el área bajo la curva (ABC) ROC fue de 0,809. En un segundo modelo incluimos solo variables de fácil obtención (sin la prueba de la marcha), y solo la SpO2 y las visitas previas a urgencias fueron significativas, con un ABC ROC de 0,783. Conclusiones: El ingreso hospitalario por exacerbación de la EPOC se asocia a peor SpO2, mayor puntuación del índice BODE y un mayor número de visitas al servicio de urgencias. En caso de no disponer de la prueba de caminar 6min, las otras dos variables ofrecen una capacidad discriminativa similar(AU)

Introduction: Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) that require hospital admission have a major impact on the progression of disease and generate high health costs. Method: A multi-center, cross-sectional, observational, study was conducted with the aim to identify factors associated with hospital admission in patients with COPD. We obtained data of socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics, quality of life, respiratory symptoms, anxiety and depression, physical activity and pulmonary function tests. We analyzed their association with hospital admission with a multivariate analysis using a logistic regression model. Results: We analyzed 127 patients, 50 (39%) of whom had been hospitalized. 93.7% were men, mean age 67 years (SD=9) and a FEV1 of 41.9% (SD=15.3). In the first model obtained, the baseline SpO2, the BODE index and emergency room (ER) visits were associated with hospital admission and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.809. In a second model we included only variables readily available (without the 6 minutes walking test) and only the SpO2 and previous visits to the ER were significant with an AUC ROC 0.783. Conclusions: hospital admission for exacerbation of COPD is associated with poor SpO2, higher BODE index score and a greater number of visits to the ER. In case you do not have the 6 minutes walking test, the other two variables offer a similar discriminative ability(AU)

Internal consistency and validity of the Spanish version of the "Quebec Sleep Questionnaire" quality-of-life questionnaire for obstructive sleep apnea.

INTRODUCTION: There is no specific health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaire that has been validated in Spanish for its use in patients with sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS). The objective of the present study was to validate the Spanish version of the Quebec Sleep Questionnaire (QSQ). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A multi-center study including a group of patients with SAHS (AHI≥5) referred to the Sleep Unit. All patients completed the following questionnaires: SF-36, FOSQ, QSQ and Epworth scale. Internal consistency, construct validity, concurrent validity, predictive validity, repeatability and responsiveness to change of the QSQ (32 items in five domains: daytime sleepiness, diurnal symptoms, nocturnal symptoms, emotions, and social interactions) were assessed. RESULTS: A hundred twenty one patients were included in the study (mean age: 57 ± 13; mean Epworth: 9 ± 4; mean Body Mass Index (BMI): 28 ± 3 kg·m(-2) and mean AHI: 36 ± 20 hour(-1)). The factorial analysis showed a construct of five factors with similar distribution to the original questionnaire domains. Internal consistency (Cranach's alpha between 0.78 and 0.93 for the different domains), concurrent validity (compared to SF-36, Epworth scale and FOSQ), predictive validity of SAHS severity and test-retest reliability were appropriate. The test showed good responsiveness to change in diurnal (P=.003) and nocturnal symptoms domains (P=.02). CONCLUSIONS: The Spanish version of the QSQ is a valid HRQL measure with appropriate psychometric properties for use in patients with SAHS and is responsive to change in symptoms domains.

Factors associated with hospital admission for exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

INTRODUCTION: Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) that require hospital admission have a major impact on the progression of disease and generate high health costs. METHOD: A multi-center, cross-sectional, observational, study was conducted with the aim to identify factors associated with hospital admission in patients with COPD. We obtained data of socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics, quality of life, respiratory symptoms, anxiety and depression, physical activity and pulmonary function tests. We analyzed their association with hospital admission with a multivariate analysis using a logistic regression model. RESULTS: We analyzed 127 patients, 50 (39%) of whom had been hospitalized. 93.7% were men, mean age 67 years (SD=9) and a FEV1 of 41.9% (SD=15.3). In the first model obtained, the baseline SpO(2), the BODE index and emergency room (ER) visits were associated with hospital admission and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.809. In a second model we included only variables readily available (without the 6 minutes walking test) and only the SpO(2) and previous visits to the ER were significant with an AUC ROC 0.783. CONCLUSIONS: hospital admission for exacerbation of COPD is associated with poor SpO(2), higher BODE index score and a greater number of visits to the ER. In case you do not have the 6 minutes walking test, the other two variables offer a similar discriminative ability.

[Translation and adaptation to Spanish language of the quality of life questionnaire for sleep apnea-hipopnea syndrome Quebec Sleep Questionnaire]. / Traducción y adaptación al castellano del cuestionario de calidad de vida relacionado con el síndrome de apnea-hipopnea del sueño Quebec Sleep Questionnaire.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to translate and adapt to Spanish the Québec Sleep Questionnaire (QSQ). METHODS: For QSQ tran-cultural adaptation, the back-translation technique was used. A psychologist and a pneumonologist made a first translation of the questionnaire. Naturalness-correctness of items and conceptual equivalence were evaluated by external researchers and a group of patients. A back-translation was finally remitted to author. RESULTS: Most of the items had minimal difficulty in translation. The difficulty was moderate in only 4 of them (items 2, 7, 8, 30). Naturalness-correctness was maximal in most items and excellent in 4 (8 to 9 points). The conceptual equivalence was complete in all the items, except item 2 that showed a partial equivalence. CONCLUSIONS: The first translation and adaptation to Spanish language of the quality of life questionnaire QSQ has been done. The translation has minimal difficulty and the conceptual equivalence is almost complete.

[Low doses of megestrol acetate increase weight and improve nutrition status in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and weight loss]. / Dosis bajas de acetato de megestrol aumentan el peso y mejoran la nutrición de los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica grave y pérdida de peso.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Weight loss in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prognostic bad factor. The objective of this study is to analyze the effectively of megestrol acetate (MA) to increase appetite of these patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Randomized double blind placebo controlled trial to study the effect of 160 mg/bid of MA, for 8 weeks, on nutritional, functional, analytical and quality of life parameters, in 38 patients with severe COPD and body mass index (BMI) < 21 kg/m(2), or between 21-25 with involuntary weight loss of 5% in the last 3 months. RESULTS: At 8 weeks, in the MA group the body weight increased (2.3 kg) with respect to the control group (0.1 kg) (p<0.04). MA improved significantly the triceps skin-fold thickness (p < 0.04), prealbumin (p<0.004), lymphocytes (p<0.0006), C3 (p<0.04), PCO(2) (p<0.007) and bicarbonate levels (p<0.008). MA did not increase the MRC and SGRQ scales, the distance of 6 MWT nor BODE index. The IL-6 and TNF alpha levels were not modified in the MA group, but leptin did increase (p<0.043). MA improved the sense of wellbeing (p<0.02) and the appetite (p<0.008), compared to the control group. Adverse effects were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: MA safely increases the body weight and the appetite in severe COPD patients with weight loss. MA improves blood gases and nutritional parameters and the sense of wellbeing, but it does not improve the respiratory muscular function or exercise tolerance.

Dosis bajas de acetato de megestrol aumentan el peso y mejoran la nutrición de los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica grave y pérdida de peso / Low doses of megestrol acetate increase weight and improve nutrition status in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and weight loss

Fundamento y objetivo:La pérdida de peso en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) grave indica mal pronóstico. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la efectividad del acetato de megestrol (AM) como estimulante del apetito en estos pacientes. Pacientes y método: Ensayo clínico aleatorizado, doble ciego y controlado con placebo para estudiar el efecto de 320mg/d de AM durante 8 semanas sobre parámetros nutricionales, funcionales, analíticos y de calidad de vida en 38 pacientes con EPOC grave e índice de masa corporal (IMC) < 21kg/m2, o entre 21-25kg/m2 con pérdida involuntaria del 5% del peso en los últimos 3 meses. Resultados: A las 8 semanas, el peso aumentó en el grupo AM (2,3kg) respecto al control (0,1kg) (p < 0,04). Mejoraron con AM de forma significativa el grosor del pliegue tricipital (p < 0,04), los valores de prealbúmina (p<0,004), linfocitos (p<0,0006), fracción 3 del complemento (C3) (p<0,04), presión parcial de dióxido de carbono (PCO2) (p<0,007) y bicarbonato (p<0,008). No mejoraron las escalas MCR y SGRQ, la distancia recorrida en 6 minutos (6MWT) ni el índice BODE. La interleucina 6 (IL-6) y el factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-alfa) tampoco se modificaron en el grupo AM, pero aumentó la leptina (p<0,043). El AM mejoró la sensación de bienestar (p<0,02) y el apetito (p<0,008) frente al control. El índice de acontecimientos adversos fue similar en ambos grupos. Conclusiones: El AM incrementa de forma segura el peso y el apetito en pacientes con EPOC grave y pérdida de peso. Mejora los parámetros gasométricos, nutricionales y la sensación de bienestar, pero no la función muscular respiratoria o la tolerancia al ejercicio (AU)

Background and objective: Weight loss in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prognostic bad factor. The objective of this study is to analyze the effectively of megestrol acetate (MA) to increase appetite of these patients. Patients and methods: Randomized double blind placebo controlled trial to study the effect of 160mg/bid of MA, for 8weeks, on nutritional, functional, analytical and quality of life parameters, in 38 patients with severe COPD and body mass index (BMI) < 21kg/m2, or between 21-25 with involuntary weight loss of 5% in the last 3 months. Results: At 8weeks, in the MA group the body weight increased (2.3kg) with respect to the control group (0.1kg) (p<0.04). MA improved significantly the triceps skin-fold thickness (p < 0.04), prealbumin (p<0.004), lymphocytes (p<0.0006), C3 (p<0.04), PCO2 (p<0.007) and bicarbonate levels (p<0.008). MA did not increase the MRC and SGRQ scales, the distance of 6MWT nor BODE index. The IL-6 and TNF alpha levels were not modified in the MA group, but leptin did increase (p<0.043). MA improved the sense of wellbeing (p<0.02) and the appetite (p<0.008), compared to the control group. Adverse effects were similar in both groups. Conclusions: MA safely increases the body weight and the appetite in severe COPD patients with weight loss. MA improves blood gases and nutritional parameters and the sense of wellbeing, but it does not improve the respiratory muscular function or exercise tolerance (AU)

COPD severity score as a predictor of failure in exacerbations of COPD. The ESFERA study.

BACKGROUND: Exacerbations are a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality in COPD. It is crucial to identify risk factors for failure after treatment of exacerbations of COPD. This study evaluates the COPD severity score (COPDSS) as a predictor of clinical failure, together with other severity, activity and quality of life measurements, in patients with exacerbated COPD. METHOD: Multicenter, prospective, observational study in ambulatory patients with exacerbation of COPD. The patients completed the COPDSS, the London Chest Activities of Daily Living (LCADL) and the EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D). A follow-up visit was scheduled one month after presentation with the exacerbation to assess the clinical evolution. RESULTS: A total of 346 patients were included (mean age 68.5 years (SD=9.5 years and 90.7% male) and mean FEV(1)(% predicted) 46.9% (SD=17)). After one month, 28.2% of episodes were classified as failures, with half of them requiring hospital admission. Patients who failed were more frequently active smokers, with more severe dyspnoea at presentation and worse lung function. They had significantly worse scores of COPDSS, LCADL, EQ-5D index and EQ-5D visual analogue score (VAS) and shorter mean time walking per day. ROC analysis of relationship between COPDSS and failure gave AUC 0.72, which improved only to 0.77 when the other significant variables in univariate analysis were considered. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical failure after ambulatory treatment of exacerbation of COPD is frequent. Usual markers of severity (impaired lung function, active smoking and severe dyspnoea) are associated with failure; however, a short severity questionnaire (COPDSS) provides better predictive value than the usual variables.

Determinants of health-related quality of life in patients with pulmonary emphysema.

QUESTION OF THE STUDY: The aim of our study was to examine the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQL), lung function parameters and intensity of dyspnea in order to determinate what variables influence the HRQL in patients with pulmonary emphysema. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty (mean aged 66+/-9) consecutive male patients with pulmonary emphysema were evaluated. All patients underwent spirometry, measurement of lung volumes, inspiratory and expiratory respiratory pressure (MIP and MEP), measurement of corrected carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (KCO), and 6-min walking test (6MWT). The scale of dyspnea by the baseline dyspnea index (BDI) and British Medical Council Research (MCR), and the quality of life by Chronic Respiratory Question Disease (CRQD) were also assessed. RESULTS: FEV1, FVC, 6MWT, KCO, MEP, MIP, BDI and MCR were correlated with dimensions of CRQD. Factor analysis reduced these variables to four factors, which accounted for 86.2% of the total variance: (1) airway obstruction, (2) dyspnea, (3) capacity of effort, (4) maximum static respiratory pressure. In the multiple regression model BDI and MEP explained the 64% of the total variance of CRQD. CONCLUSIONS: Quality of life measured by CRQD in patients with emphysema is predominantly determined by dyspnea, and in minor degree by expiratory muscle strength. Our results underscore the usefulness of dyspnea scales and MEP in the evaluation of HRQL in patients with emphysema.