Nasal and sinus involvement in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Allergy and Immunology
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently involves nasal inflammation alongside lower airway disease.
• Understanding the interplay between upper and lower airway conditions in COPD is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the relationship between upper and lower airway disease in COPD.
• To explore the therapeutic implications of this relationship.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on pan-airway involvement in COPD.
• Analysis of evidence linking upper airway inflammation and obstruction to lower airway severity.

Main Results:

• Growing evidence supports pan-airway involvement in COPD.
• Nasal airway obstruction severity correlates with pulmonary airflow limitation.
• Upper airway and systemic inflammation levels mirror lower airway inflammation.

Conclusions:

• COPD patients require assessment for coexistent rhinosinusitis.
• Treating upper airway conditions can enhance global health status in COPD.
• Evaluating rhinosinusitis patients for lower airway disease is important, especially given tobacco smoke's impact.