Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026
08:17
Generation of a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Model in Mice by Repeated Ozone Exposure
Published on: August 25, 2017
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations in the COPDGene study: associated radiologic phenotypes
Meilan K Han1, Ella A Kazerooni, David A Lynch
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. mrking@umich.edu
Radiology
|July 27, 2011
Summary
Quantitative CT measures of emphysema and airway wall thickness are linked to increased chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. These findings, independent of airflow obstruction severity, aid in identifying high-risk COPD patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management increasingly utilizes quantitative computed tomography (CT) phenotypes.
- Understanding the relationship between CT-derived disease measures and exacerbation frequency is crucial for personalized patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between quantitative CT metrics of emphysema and airway disease and the frequency of COPD exacerbations.
- To determine if CT-derived phenotypes can predict exacerbation risk in COPD patients.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 1,002 COPDGene Study participants meeting Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria.
- Quantified total lung emphysema percentage using the -950 HU threshold attenuation mask technique.
- Measured airway wall thickness and area percentage in segmental bronchi using automated software.
- Assessed prior-year COPD exacerbation frequency via questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Multivariate analysis revealed significant associations between bronchial wall thickness, total lung emphysema percentage, and COPD exacerbation frequency, adjusted for lung function.
- A 1-mm increase in bronchial wall thickness correlated with a 1.84-fold increase in annual exacerbation rate (P = .004).
- A 5% increase in emphysema in patients with ≥35% emphysema was associated with a 1.18-fold increase in exacerbation rate (P = .047).
Conclusions:
- Increased lung emphysema and airway wall thickness are independently associated with higher COPD exacerbation rates, irrespective of airflow obstruction severity.
- Quantitative CT analysis can identify COPD patient subgroups prone to exacerbations.
- These findings support targeted research and the development of individualized therapies based on specific COPD phenotypes.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
COPD is defined as a heterogeneous lung condition marked by persistent respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and sputum production, caused by abnormalities in the airways that cause airflow obstruction.
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...
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...
01:19Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease IV: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is a long-term condition marked by persistent and only partially reversible airflow limitation. It involves two overlapping conditions—chronic bronchitis and emphysema—which often co-appear but differ in dominant symptoms and underlying mechanisms.Chronic Bronchitis FeaturesChronic bronchitis presents with a persistent productive cough and thick, sometimes purulent mucus due to airway inflammation, enlarged mucus glands, and goblet cell...
01:27Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Assessing and diagnosing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) involves a detailed approach that includes a comprehensive review of medical history, physical examination, and a variety of diagnostic tests. This thorough evaluation is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and guide effective management strategies.
Medical History
Medical History
01:20COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that progressively worsen over time, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This cluster of diseases collectively leads to a gradual and irreversible decline in lung function over time.
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
01:20Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-lasting respiratory condition requiring continuous attention and care. It is a progressive lung disease that leads to breathing challenges due to airflow obstruction. It manifests as persistent respiratory symptoms and restricted airflow resulting from abnormalities in the airways and alveoli, usually due to long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases. COPD mainly consists of two primary conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis.