Elevated serum interleukin-5 levels in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory lung disorder which is now ranked third as a leading cause of death [1]. Fixed airflow obstruction that is measured by spirometry following inhaled bronchodilator is essential to its diagnosis, and in its advanced stages, systemic manifestations such as inflammation and cachexia are also characteristic. In the lung, pathological features include increased number of airway neutrophils, a cytotoxic (Tc) predominant lymphocytic response associated with lymphoid follicles containing B and T cells, and increased proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8. Lung fibrosis and parenchymal destruction, also known as emphysema, can also be the feature in addition to obstruction of small airways. Some evidence...