[Role of antibiotherapy in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

M Cavassini1, T Calandra, P O Bridevaux

  • 1Service des maladies infectieuses, Département de médecine, CHUV, 101I Lausanne. matthias.cavassini@chuv.ch

Revue Medicale Suisse
|June 20, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Respiratory infections cause most chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. This review covers antibiotic recommendations for managing moderate to severe COPD exacerbations, improving quality of life and reducing hospitalizations.

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Context:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations are frequently triggered by respiratory tract infections.
  • The specific microorganisms involved vary with COPD severity, prior antibiotic use, and previous infections.
  • Current management of moderate to severe COPD exacerbations relies on antibiotics and enhanced bronchodilator therapy.

Purpose:

  • To review current recommendations for antibiotic use in treating COPD exacerbations.
  • To provide guidance on selecting appropriate antibiotic therapy based on causative pathogens and patient factors.

Summary:

  • Antibiotics are crucial for managing moderate to severe COPD exacerbations, which are often infection-driven.
  • Tailoring antibiotic choice to the specific pathogen and patient history is essential.
  • Prompt and appropriate treatment can decrease hospitalization rates and improve patient quality of life.

Impact:

  • Informing clinical practice for optimal management of COPD exacerbations.
  • Potentially reducing the burden of COPD exacerbations on healthcare systems.
  • Improving patient outcomes through evidence-based antibiotic selection.

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