can be identified with simple biomarkers. Studies are needed to validate the use of these biomarkers to direct therapy for AECOPD.
Aim of this study
to evaluate the use of blood eosinophilia (>2%) in directing steroids therapy in AE-COPD.
Patients and methods
In the preliminary retrospective analysis of 13297 admissions (2010-2014), AECOPD was the cause in 5016 events, COPD with bronchiectasis (1386) and α1 antitrypsin deficiency (264) were excluded and data of 3366 exacerbations were revised. 2442 (72.5%) were bacterial and 924 (27.5%) Eosinophilic ( Eosinophils>2%). All patients received standard therapy according to GOLD Guidelines. The baseline clinical, functional characteristics, days of hospital stay, side effects, treatment failure, number of exacerbation, need for ICU were recorded. The second phas