Evaluating Arterial Blood Gas Modifications Before and After Corticosteroid Intervention in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Abstract: 

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a prevalent and progressive respiratory disorder characterized by airflow limitation and chronic inflammation from prolonged exposure to harmful particles and gases, significantly affects patients' quality of life.

Objective: This study examines the impact of corticosteroid therapy on arterial blood gas (ABG) parameters in patients with acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD), evaluating ABG values before and after treatment to determine therapeutic effectiveness.

Methods: Conducted at Bahawal Victoria Hospital's Pulmonology Department from August 15, 2022, to January 15, 2023, this quasi-experimental study included 170 COPD patients meeting exacerbation criteria. Exclusions included severe systemic illness, unconsciousness, inability to clear airways, arterial blood pH < 7.35, hemodynamic instability, or cor-pulmonale. Patients consented to a 2-day regimen of nebulized corticosteroid (beclomethasone), with ABG parameters like PaO2 and pH measured before and after treatment. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 24.

Results:

Initially, 202 patients with AECOPD were enrolled, and nebulized beclomethasone was administered. However, 32 patients who did not respond and required IV steroids were excluded. Among the remaining 170 patients, post-treatment mean PaO2 levels significantly increased from 58.74 mmHg to 69.51 mmHg (p < 0.000). Stratified analyses across different age groups and genders confirmed the therapy’s effectiveness in enhancing arterial oxygenation.

Conclusion: Nebulized corticosteroid therapy have valuable role in the treatment of  AECOPD patients with mild hypoxemia and  significantly improves  in Arterial oxygen.