[Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Internal Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant global health concern, predominantly linked to cigarette smoke exposure.
• It causes not only pulmonary damage but also systemic impairment, with increasing recognition of associated comorbidities.

Observation:

• COPD diagnosis relies on clinical presentation, pulmonary function tests, comorbidity assessment, and differential diagnosis exclusion.
• The disease is characterized by heterogeneity and various patient phenotypes.

Findings:

• Pharmacological treatments can alleviate symptoms, enhance exercise capacity, and decrease exacerbation frequency and severity.
• Non-pharmacological interventions, including smoking cessation, nutritional support, oxygen therapy, and rehabilitation, are crucial for managing COPD.

Implications:

• Comprehensive management strategies combining pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches are essential for improving the health status of COPD patients.
• Further research into COPD phenotypes and personalized treatment plans is warranted to optimize patient care and reduce morbidity and mortality.