Inhaled corticosteroids in COPD: systemic effects of a local therapy?
BACKGROUND
There are few data on the effects of inhaled corticosteroids on systemic inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).


OBJECTIVE
Evaluation of the systemic anti-inflammatory effects of inhaled corticosteroids alone or in combination with long acting beta2-agonists.


METHODS
Analysis of the results of a randomized study assessing the short-term effects of inhaled fluticasone propionate, inhaled fluticasone + salmeterol and placebo on three inflammation biomarkers represented by C-reactive protein, IL-6 and surfactant protein-D.


CONCLUSIONS
Inhaled corticosteroids alone or in combination exhibited partial systemic anti-inflammatory effects, reducing significantly only SP-D serum levels. Further evaluation of effects of inhaled corticosteroids on various biomarkers of systemic inflammation is required in more severe stable COPD.
Antoniu
Sabina A
SA
University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Gr. T. Popa' Iasi, Division of Pulmonary Disease, Pulmonary Disease University Hospital, 30 Dr I Cihac Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania. sabina.antonela.antoniu@pneum.umfiasi.ro