Predicting Lung Function Decline in COPD via One-Year CT Emphysema Subtype Progression: Insights from SPIROMICS

Highlight

• One-year progression of CT emphysema subtypes, specifically combined bronchitic-apical emphysema (CBaE) and diffuse emphysema, independently predicts subsequent accelerated FEV₁ decline in smokers with and without COPD.
• Standard quantitative CT measures of emphysema also correlate with lung function decline but lack independent predictive power when combined with subtype measures.
• Findings support the use of CT emphysema subtype progression as intermediate endpoints to enhance efficiency of clinical trials in COPD.

Study Background