Plasma brain natriuretic peptide, platelet parameters, and cardiopulmonary function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Research background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory disease with worldwide occurrence and high disability and mortality rate. Following the development of COPD, patients begin to show increased pulmonary circulation resistance, abnormal enhancement of vascular intima function, development of vascular fibrosis and occlusion, and remodeling of pulmonary circulation structure.

Research motivation

This study could serve as an important reference to explain the correlation of plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and platelet parameters with pulmonary arterial pressure and cardiac function classification in patients with COPD complicated with cor pulmonale.

Research objectives

This study aimed to investigate the correlation of plasma BNP and platelet parameters with cardiac function and pulmonary hypertension in patients with COPD and pulmonary heart disease.

Research methods

Fifty-two patients with COPD-pulmonary heart disease, 30 patients with COPD, and 30 healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. Plasma BNP and platelet count (PLT) parameters were estimated and compared among different groups and subgroups.

Research results

In the pulmonary heart disease, COPD, and control groups, the plasma BNP, platelet distribution width (PDW), and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels showed a decreasing trend, while the PLT and PCT levels showed an increasing trend. In patients with pulmonary heart disease, the plasma BNP, PDW, and MPV levels were positively correlated, and the PLT level was negatively correlated with their pulmonary artery pressure and cardiac function grade.

Research conclusions

Plasma BNP and PLT parameters are significantly correlated with cardiac function and pulmonary hypertension in patients with COPD and pulmonary heart disease, and these parameters can be used to monitor patients’ health status and recommend appropriate treatment.

Research perspectives

The mechanisms by which plasma BNP and platelet parameters affect pulmonary artery pressure and cardiac function should also be further studied.