Clinical Profile, Exacerbation Burden and Functional Status in Post-Tuberculosis Obstructive Airway Disease versus Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Prospective Observational Study

Background

Post-tuberculosis obstructive airway disease (PTOAD) is a recognised non-smoking cause of chronic airflow limitation, yet is often managed as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Aims/Objectives: To compare the clinical profile, exacerbation burden, treatment outcomes, and changes in lung function between patients with PTOAD and COPD presenting with acute exacerbations at a tertiary care centre. Methodology: Prospective observational study of 154 patients (77 COPD, 77 PTOAD) admitted with acute exacerbation to a tertiary care centre, March 2025 to February 2026. All underwent chest radiography and post-bronchodilator spirometry at admission and six months. Chi-square, Fisher’s exact and t-tests were used; P < 0.05 was significant.