Tackling COPD: a multicomponent disease driven by inflammation

In recent years, research has revealed more about the factors underlying the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In particular, inflammation in the lungs leads to the structural changes observed in COPD, while extrapulmonary symptoms and comorbidities may be systemic manifestations of these inflammatory processes. A new multicomponent disease model is proposed that takes into account all elements that should be considered in treatment decisions. Current monotherapies act on different aspects of COPD and may not address all components. A combination of a long-acting beta2 agonist and an inhaled corticosteroid has complementary effects, addressing a wider range of components of COPD. This combination appears to have greater clinical benefits than either agent alone in reducing the frequency of exacerbations, reducing the number of hospitalizations, and potentially promoting survival. Minimizing the burden of COPD within--and potentially outside--the lung means treating patients early and addressing as many disease components as possible.