Effect of Tiotropium on Airway Remodeling in Patients With Early Stage COPD Accessed by Optical Coherence Tomography

Effect of Tiotropium on Airway Remodeling in Patients With Early Stage COPD Accessed by Optical Coherence Tomography

The study aims to explore the effect of tiotropium on airway remodeling by using Endobronchial Optical Coherence Tomography (EB-OCT). We enrolled patients with GOLD I stage COPD. All the patients will be divided into four groups randomly to receive SABA as needed with or without regular use of tiotropium. Changes of airway morphology (accessed by EB-OCT), pulmonary function, QOL, and SABA usage will be obtained.

Key inclusion criteria

• Over 40 yrs; Male or female Diagnosed with COPD
• Pre-bronchodilator FEV1 ≥80% pred ;
• Patients must be able to perform all study related procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with other lung diseases (such as bronchiectasis, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, airway deformation, lung surgery, etc.).
• Patients have poor compliance and are unwilling to receive medication regularly.
• Other complications of bronchoscopy or intolerance of bronchoscopy procedure.