COPD
Overview
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease state characterised by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The airflow limitation is usually progressive and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases.[1] Classically, it is thought to be a combination of emphysema and chronic bronchitis, although only one of these may be present in some people with COPD. Emphysema is abnormal permanent enlargement of the air spaces distal to the terminal bronchioles, accompanied by destruction of their walls, and without obvious fibrosis. Chronic bronchitis is chronic cough or mucous production for at least 3 months in at least 2 successive years when other causes of chronic cough have been excluded.[2]
Latest guidelines
Screening for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Using Spirometry: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement
(01 April 2008)
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Acute respiratory illness. (01 January 2005)
American College of Radiology
