COPD is defined as a disease state characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The airflow limitation is usually both progressive and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases. Exacerbations, mostly of bacterial, are a frequent cause of morbidity in COPD patients. A total of 148 sputum samples were collected from AECOPD patients. All collected sputum samples were subjected to standard microbiological procedures. Out of 148

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... sputum samples, growth of pathogenic organisms was obtained in 109 (73.65%) sputum samples. Gram negative organisms were isolated predominantly 68(62.39%). While Gram positive organisms accounted for 41(37.61%). Haemophilus influenzae 38(34.86) was the predominant bacteria isolated followed by Streptococcus pneumonia 25(22.94). Eight patients had positive mycobacterial sputum culture on Lowenstien Jensen medium. Majority of isolates were sensitive to piperacillin/ tazobactum followed by amikacin. H. influenzae was the commonest bacterium isolated predominantly. Piperacillin/ tazobactum and amikacin were the most active antibacterial agents in our study. It is essential to screen for sputum AFB in endemic areas of tuberculosis.