Associating Serum IgM, IgA Levels with Thoracic CT Indicators and Pulmonary Function Indexes in Acutely Exacerbated Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

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Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a respiratory condition characterized by acute exacerbations and reduced lung function. This study investigates the link between serum markers (Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and Immunoglobulin A (IgA)), thoracic computed tomography (CT) scan findings, and pulmonary function indexes during these episodes, aiming to improve our understanding and identify new diagnostic indicators. Methods: From the First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, we selected 89 COPD patients experiencing acute exacerbation within the past two years for our Acute Exacerbation Group (AG). Meanwhile, 96 COPD patients, initially treated at the same hospital and currently deemed stable, were chosen for the Stable Group (SG). Both groups underwent serum IgM and IgA tests, thoracic CT examinations, and pulmonary function assessments. Results: In the AG Group, the serum IgM levels were marginally lower than in the Stable Group (SG), though the difference wasn't statistically significant (p = 0.097). Conversely, serum IgA levels in the AG were significantly lower than in the SG (p < 0.001). The AG also showed markedly reduced lung volume, inspiratory lung density, and pulmonary function indexes compared to the SG while having considerably higher values for emphysema index (EI) and air trapping index (ATI) (all p < 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that lung volume, average inspiratory lung density, and IgA levels had strong positive correlations with one-second forced expiratory volume (FEV1), FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC), and diffuse carbon monoxide (DLCO) (with respective r-values of 0.824, 0.841, and 0.829; all p < 0.001). In contrast, EI and ATI exhibited significantly negative correlations with FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and DLCO (with r-values ranging from –0.837 to –0.885; all p < 0.001). Conclusions: The assessment of serum IgA combined with thoracic CT parameters offers valuable insights for diagnosing and evaluating acute exacerbations of COPD, presenting a straightforward clinical utility.

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