The Impact of Sarcopenia on COPD Exacerbation Admission Outcome and Further Exacerbation Risk

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is more prevalent and has more impact on health status because of progressive air pollution, tobacco smoking and aging society. The COPD prevalence investigation in 2013 by phone call showed at least 6% of the population with more than 40 years-old in Taiwan. It also was the 7th ranking of death causes in Taiwan then. Apart from chronic inflammation in lung and deteriorated lung function, it had extrapulmonary complications, such as cardiovascular problems, osteoporosis and muscle wasting. The concept of sarcopenia was proposed at first in 1989. It increases the risk of falls, disability and lowering life quality. Besides, it increased the mortality risk after admission from acute ward. Thereafter, sarcopenia is one of COPD co-morbidities, which should have great impacts of COPD. The studies showed sarcopenia reduced exercise capacities and worsening dyspnea scores. On the other hand, COPD exacerbation brings significant health burden. But there is limited data about the effect on sarcopenia on COPD exacerbation. We conducted a prospective observational study. We measured skeletal muscle mass and the strength of the used hand grip within 3 days of admission and before discharge. Mortality and exacerbation in one year are the primary end-points