Predicting COPD Severity by Red Cell Distribution Width as a Potential Marker.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition of the lower airways and lungs with stable inflammation and alterations in the structure of small airways. There are some biomarkers linked to acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD). Red cell distribution width (RDW) is one of these biomarkers. To investigate the correlation between RDW and the severity of COPD, and to assess its relationship with the stage of airway obstruction in spirometry among COPD patients. Materials and Methods: In an 18-month retrospective study, a total of 255 participants were enrolled, including 170 patients with COPD (85 with stable COPD and 85 with acute exacerbations of COPD) and 85 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals. Demographic factors and blood laboratory tests were conducted for each group. The COPD groups had their COPD severity, spirometry parameters, and inflammation indices recorded and then compared. Results: RDW levels are increased in COPD patients (p<0.001). However, no statistically significant relationships between RDW values and CAT scores or mMRC grades were observed. Our analysis revealed that spirometry parameters and RDW levels are negatively correlated (p<0.05). Additionally, the RDW parameter has a positive and significant correlation with PCO Conclusion: Our findings indicate that RDW could serve as a potential predictor of COPD conditions, especially in spirometry parameters.