Association of Severity of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease with Sputum Bacterial Isolation

Background Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a frequent respiratory disease seen in chronic smokers. These patients suffer from episodes of exacerbations, commonly caused by bacterial infection. The study aimed at finding association of COPD severity with the bacteria isolated. Methods The study was conducted in Silchar Medical College, Assam in 114 patients. Sputum samples were sent for culture testing. Spirometry was performed to grade the severity. Results A significant association was found between increasing severity and greater isolation of Gram Negative bacteria (p-value less than 0.05). Conclusion Gram Negative bacteria are a common cause of exacerbations in more severe cases of COPD.