Blood eosinophils in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A potential biomarker

This review examines the role of blood eosinophils as potential biomarkers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While the involvement of eosinophils in COPD airway inflammation is established, the clinical significance of blood eosinophil counts (BEC) in predicting outcomes and guiding treatment remains debated. The review analyzes existing literature on BEC stability, correlations with clinical characteristics (symptoms, lung function, bacterial load), response to corticosteroids (both inhaled and systemic), and associations with clinical outcomes (exacerbation risk, mortality). While some studies suggest BEC can predict response to corticosteroids and exacerbation risk, others find no significant association. The authors highlight the importance of considering BEC variability over time rather than relying on a single measurement, and advocate for further research to clarify the clinical utility of BEC as a biomarker in COPD.

Yan Chen, Yanan Cui