Bronchodilatation test response predictors in lung function assessment of patients with resectable lung cancer and concominant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Purpose: The goal of this pilot study was to determine factors influencing the bronchodilatation test (BDT) response during preoperative lung function assessment in patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Patients and methods: The analysis included 34 patients who met the following entry criteria: preoperative lung function assessment including a BDT presence of operable, histologically confirmed stage IA-IIIA NSCLC established by computerized tomography (CT) and endoscopical findings, no more than one cardiovascular risk factor present, no interstitial pulmonary diseases (restriction exclusively due to the tumor), and patient's age up to 70 years. The study was partially retrospective and partially prospective. BDT was performed by forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) measurement prior to and 30 min after two Berodual® inhalations (0.005 mg of fenoterol + 0.002 mg of ipratropium bromide per inhalation). Results: Possible predictors of BDT response may include history of COPD longer than 15 years, N2 lymph nodes involvement, total lung restriction, and presence of a visible tumor in the main and intermediate bronchus. Conclusion: These possible predictors remain hypothetical as the study cohort is rather small, so a large scale research should follow to provide reliable data necessary to make definite conclusions. © 2006 Zerbinis Medical Publications.