The sputum transcriptome better predicts COPD exacerbations after the withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids than sputum eosinophils

Abstract

We identified a sputum gene expression signature that exhibited a higher predictive value for predicting COPD exacerbations after ICS withdrawal than sputum eosinophilia. Future studies should investigate the utility of this signature, which might enhance personalised ICS treatment in COPD patients.