Assessment of COPD Assessment Test (CAT) Score and Pulmonary Function Tests in Stable and Acute Exacerbation of COPD: An Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable disease characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. It is usually progressive and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases, along with significant extrapulmonary effects that contribute to disease severity. The COPD Assessment Test (CAT) is a validated, self-completed questionnaire consisting of 8 items scored on a 6-point scale (0-5). It is designed to evaluate the perceived severity of COPD symptoms (e.g., shortness of breath, cough, and phlegm) and should be administered to all COPD patients irrespective of disease severity. Objectives: To assess and compare CAT scores, Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) in patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) and stable COPD. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based descriptive observational study was conducted over 18 months at Navodaya Medical College, Raichur, Karnataka. The study included 50 diagnosed cases of COPD (25 stable, 25 AECOPD). Detailed patient histories, clinical examinations, and laboratory investigations were conducted. CAT scores were evaluated in the patients' vernacular languages. Results: The mean CAT score was significantly higher in the AECOPD group compared to the stable COPD group (33.76 ± 0.72 vs. 20.92 ± 2.61; p
Keywords: COPD, CAT Score, Pulmonary Function Test, Acute Exacerbation
How to Cite?: Dr. Pratik Nerlekar, Dr. Payal Bhole, "Assessment of COPD Assessment Test (CAT) Score and Pulmonary Function Tests in Stable and Acute Exacerbation of COPD: An Observational Study", Volume 15 Issue 2, February 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1405-1409, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26221182653, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26221182653