[Malnutrition in chronic obstructive bronchopulmonary diseases]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Nutritional Science
• Clinical Medicine

Context:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is frequently associated with malnutrition, affecting 23-70% of patients.
• Malnutrition in COPD is an independent predictor of poor prognosis and survival.
• It results from a chronic negative energy and nutrient balance due to hypermetabolism and reduced food intake.

Purpose:

• To explore the causes and consequences of malnutrition in COPD patients.
• To discuss the challenges and potential benefits of nutritional rehabilitation (realimentation) in COPD.
• To highlight the importance of healthcare professional effort and patient compliance in managing malnutrition.

Summary:

• Malnutrition in COPD arises from increased energy expenditure (hypermetabolism) and potentially decreased nutrient intake.
• Adverse effects include reduced respiratory muscle strength, electrolyte imbalances, altered respiratory control, and immunosuppression.
• Realimentation is challenging, particularly for outpatients, but achievable with dedicated efforts and patient adherence.

Impact:

• Improved nutritional status in COPD patients can lead to enhanced respiratory muscle strength and function.
• Effective nutritional intervention may mitigate adverse outcomes associated with malnutrition, potentially improving patient prognosis.
• This underscores the critical role of integrated nutritional management within COPD care pathways.