Clinical Correlation of Blood Eosinophil Count with Acute Exacerbations in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a global health challenge marked
by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. Acute exacerbations of
COPD (AECOPD) significantly impact morbidity and mortality. Eosinophils, a type
of white blood cell, are involved in inflammatory responses and may play a role in
the pathogenesis of AECOPD. This hospital-based observational study was
conducted at Muzaffarnagar Medical College to examine the correlation between
blood eosinophil levels and the severity of AECOPD. A total of 100 patients aged
over 35 years with AECOPD were evaluated. Blood samples were analyzed for
eosinophil counts, and spirometry was used to assess lung function. Results showed
that 42% of patients had eosinophil counts ≥300 cells/µL. A significant correlation (p
< 0.00001) was found between elevated eosinophil counts and exacerbation severity.
These findings suggest that blood eosinophil levels could serve as a useful biomarker
for assessing AECOPD severity and guiding corticosteroid therapy.