Table 1

Mean (SD) baseline physiological characteristics of the patients sampled (n=29)

FEV1=forced expiratory volume in 1 second; FVC=forced vital capacity; Pao2, Paco2=arterial oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions.
M:F21:8
No (%) current smokers16 (34%)
Mean (range) age (years)66 (47–81)
FEV1 (l)1.06 (0.41)
FEV1 (% predicted)38.7 (15.2)
FEV1/FVC (%)43.7 (14.1)
Pao2 (kPa)8.75 (0.91)
Paco2 (kPa)6.13 (0.81)
Pack years of smoking52.9 (42.2)
Daily inhaled steroid dosage (mg)1.20 (0.66)