Predictors of objective cough in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)

Background: In patients with IPF, cough often is a major problem. The exact underlying mechanism causing cough is still unknown. In this study we aimed to identify clinical characteristics predictive of cough in IPF. Methods: Patients with IPF reporting significant cough (Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)≥40) were included. Baseline objective 24-h cough counts, measured with the Leicester Cough Monitor, and clinical parameters were collected as part of an international observational study (clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02009293). Linear regression on log-transformed numbers of 24-h cough was used to identify clinical characteristics predictive of cough. Results: We included 41 IPF patients, mean age of 71 (SD 7), 76% men and 78% former smokers. Mean cough VAS was 68 (range 40-92) and 24-hour cough counts 715 (range 91-3394). Predictors of cough are shown in table. Conclusion: Female gender and never-smoking status are predictive of cough severity measured by 24-h objective cough in IPF.