Optimization of Nutritional State on the Outcome of Patients With Acute Exacerbation of Bronchiectasis

Impact of Optimization of Nutritional State on the Outcome of Patients With Acute Exacerbation of Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by the abnormal and permanent dilation of the bronchi, leading to recurrent respiratory infections, chronic cough, and significant morbidity. The disease has gained increasing recognition due to its rising prevalence and the substantial burden it places on healthcare systems .

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of nutritional status in managing chronic respiratory diseases, including bronchiectasis. Malnutrition is prevalent among patients with bronchiectasis, particularly those experiencing frequent exacerbations. It has been shown that underweight patients have lower lung function and may face worse clinical outcomes compared to those with normal weight . Specifically, a study found that underweight individuals had a significantly lower forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) compared to their normal-weight counterparts, indicating a direct correlation between nutritional status and respiratory function .

To evaluate the effects of nutritional optimization on clinical outcomes in patients experiencing an acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis. Specifically, the study seeks to:

• Assess the Relationship Between Nutritional Status and Clinical Outcomes*: To investigate how improvements in nutritional status, measured through dietary intake, body weight, and biochemical markers, correlate with clinical outcomes such as length of hospital stay, frequency of exacerbations, and overall recovery.

  • *Evaluate the Effectiveness of Nutritional Interventions*: To determine the impact of specific nutritional interventions (e.g., high-protein diets, caloric supplementation, and micronutrient support) on the health status and recovery of patients during acute exacerbations.

Inclusion Criteria:

• *Age*: Adults aged 18 years and older.

  • Diagnosis*: Confirmed diagnosis of bronchiectasis, as established by clinical evaluation and imaging studies (e.g., chest CT scan).
  • Acute Exacerbation*: Patients presenting with acute exacerbation symptoms, such as increased sputum production, worsening dyspnea, or chest pain.
  • Nutritional Assessment*: Patients identified as malnourished or at risk of malnutrition based on the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) or similar nutritional screening tools.

Exclusion Criteria:

• *Cognitive Impairment*: Patients with cognitive impairments that affect their ability to participate in the study or adhere to nutritional recommendations.

  • Current Enteral Feeding*: Patients receiving enteral nutrition or those with a feeding tube.

Recent Nutritional Interventions*: Patients who have recently undergone significant nutritional interventions (e.g., dietary changes, supplementation) within the past three months prior to enrollment.

*Pregnancy or Lactation*: Pregnant or lactating women, due to the need for specific nutritional considerations.