P1.07: A Longitudinal Pilot Study of Aortic Stiffness in Copd

Background Increased arterial stiffness has been established in patients with COPD (1). However, the changes in aortic stiffness over time and contributing factors are still unknown. We hypothesise that there would be a significant change in aortic stiffness in COPD over one year. Methods Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured using the Sphygmocor device at baseline and after one year in 30 (14 males) patients with stable COPD and 10 (6 males) controls, they free from cardiovascular diseases. Spirometry, peripheral and central blood pressure, body composition and serum creatinine were also determined as well as heart rate, smoking status and number of exacerbations per year. Results Of the patients, 16 (10 male) showed increased aortic PWV (progressor) from their baseline measurements, mean (SD) 1.70 (2.1) m/s, which related to serum creatinine r=0.66, p=0.01. There was no change in PWV in the remaining (non-progressor). Both groups were similar in age, FEV 1 %, blood pressure or mean arterial pressure (MAP). The difference in aortic stiffness between progressor and non-progressor in COPD remained significant after adjustment for MAP, heart rate, smoking status and number of exacerbations, R 2 =0.71, p<0.001. The changes over one were greater in patients than controls, 1.70 (0.92) vs 0.85 (0.77) m/s, respectively, p<0.001. Conclusion: The increase in aortic stiffness in subset COPD patients was independent of conventional risk factors. The relationship of aortic PWV with creatinine may indicate subclinical organ damage with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.