Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Alternative Therapy for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Moving Cupping Along Meridians
Published on: September 27, 2024
Frequent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbators: how much real, how much fictitious?
Juan José Soler-Cataluña1, Roberto Rodriguez-Roisin
1Hospital General de Requena, Valencia, Spain. jjsoler@telefonica.net
Abstract:
Exacerbations are important events in the natural history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The higher the number of COPD exacerbations, the worse are the clinical and economical consequences. The distribution of COPD exacerbations is however highly variable. Some patients do not exhibit exacerbations at all whereas others suffer frequent events (i.e., "frequent COPD exacerbators"). We review the scientific evidence regarding the impact of COPD exacerbation frequency and assess whether or not these frequent exacerbators represent a unique population of COPD patients with higher morbidity and mortality risks. A definition of "frequent COPD exacerbators" is suggested to differentiate it from other related terms, such as "treatment failure" and "recurrence." The standardization of this terminology seems to be necessary to further identify COPD phenotypes in patients who have an individual susceptibility to develop frequent exacerbations. It can also be of help to refine the most appropriate therapeutic and preventative measures.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease IV: Clinical Manifestations
