Disturbed Blood Flow Induces Endothelial Dysfunction in Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Disturbed Blood Flow Induces Endothelial Dysfunction in Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The aim of the study is to determine if increased retrograde shear would further deteriorate the already impaired vascular function in severe COPD patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• COPD
• chronic hypoxemia

Exclusion Criteria:

• an acute exacerbation, active respiratory infection or infection of other localisation 6 weeks prior to the visit
• relevant coexisting lung disease such as interstitial lung disease, cancer, renal failure, thromboembolic disease or major cardiovascular event during the previous year
• informed consent not provided or inability to comply with the study protocol