To explore the relating factors for cognitive dysfunction in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD).

Totally 150 patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) and 150 gender- and age-matched healthy subjects (controls) received the cognitive and depression function assessment. 150 AECOPD cases were classified into two groups: COPD patients with or without cognitive dysfunction. Fasting blood uric acid (UA) was measured and compared between the two groups. Relating factors for cognition dysfunction were analyzed.

The score of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was reduced in AECOPD patients as compared with controls 〔(19.01±3.58) vs. (26.58±1.42)scores, t=-3.48, P=0.032〕. The score of Hamilton depression (HAMD) scale was higher in AECOPD patients than in controls 〔(18.05±4.50) vs. (9.98±3.51)scores, t=4.63, P=0.028〕. The prevalence of cognitive impairment in the patients with AECOPD was 82 cases (54.7%). The serum UA level was lower in the AECOPD patients with cognitive impairment than in patients without cognitive impairment 〔(235±42) μmol/L (n=82) vs. (332±45) μmol/L (n=68), t=-6.65, P=0.003〕. In AECOPD patients, the cognitive function was correlated with education, length of hospital stay, serum UA level, COPD stages, disease duration and the depression level, but was not correlated with smoking and body mass index.

The cognitive impairment is highly prevalent in patients with AECOPD, which is associated with lower serum UA level, longer hospital stay and disease severity.

Pulmonary disease, chronic obstructive; Cognition disorders; Uric acid