The aim of our study was to determine whether we can predict the development of BOS in lung transplant recipients on the basis of concentrations of nitrite (NO2), nitrate (NO3) measured in exhaled breath condensate (EBC). The cohort consisted of 45 patients, of whom 24 men and 21 women.
The condensate was collected EcoScreen device, Jaeger, Germany). Statistically significant differences were found in mean NO2 between categories BOS (p <0.001).
Also, differences in mean NO3 BOS between categories are statistically significant (p = 0.003). Similarly, statistically significant differences in the average value of NOx between categories BOS (p <0.001).
NO3 significantly correlated with FEV1 (r = - .202, p = .028). We have shown that the concentration of nitrites and nitrates, and their sum in EBC correlated with the degree of BOS.
The threshold for NO3 to distinguish between patients with developing BOS and without BOS is 21.33 mmol / l (specificity and sensitivity are 56%) for NOx 25.24 mmol / l (sensitivity and specificity 56%), for NO2 was This value was determined. Unable to find the boundary NO3, NO2 and NOx, which would be sufficiently sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of BOS.
However, increased concentrations of NO3, NO2 and NOx alerting us to the possibility of BOS and may contribute to the early diagnosis.