From: The usefulness of MMP-9, TIMP-1 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio for diagnosis and assessment of COPD severity
Inclusion criteria | Exclusion criteria |
---|---|
Adults ≥ 40 years of age | Diagnosis of asthma or any other chronic respiratory disease |
Diagnosis of COPD at least 6Â months prior to enrollment | Immunosuppression of any kind |
Diagnosis according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Disease (GOLD) | Refusal to give informed consent |
At least one spirometry measurement in the last year with a postbronchodilator, FEV1/FVC < 0.70 | Any acute or chronic condition that would limit the ability of the patient to participate in the study |
Stable disease (no recent exacerbation for at least 4Â weeks prior to enrollment) | Â |