Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Science - Department of Biochemistry

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung condition that is associated with irreversible airflow obstruction as a consequence of small airways disease, excessive mucus production and emphysema. There are systemic biomarkers in COPD and their relationship with both the local lung and systemic manifestations of the disease that are mediated by circulating acute-phase reactants. Such biomarkers may be used to assess and manage the systemic effects of COPD, and may guide future development of novel therapeutic interventions to provide a more holistic approach in treatment. Markers of systemic inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) are increased in patients with COPD compared with disease free control subjects. Objectives: To assess SAA as a biomarker of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Methods: SAA Biomarker was measured by ELIZA technique and hs-CRP was measured by Immunoturbidimetry technique. Event severity was graded (I, mild; II, Moderate; III, severe COPD) based on consensus guidelines. Measurements and Main Results: both SAA and C-reactive protein (CRP) were elevated at COPD especially severe cases compared with control subjects. (SAA mean,71.73 vs. 1083 ng/mL; P, 0.0001; CRP mean, 3.45 vs. 13.96ng/mL; P, 0.0001). Conclusions: SAA is a novel blood biomarker of COPD that is more sensitive than CRP alone.

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