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An Approach To:

Vol. 18 No. 1 (2020)

Approach to: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

DOI
https://doi.org/10.26443/mjm.v18i1.197
Submitted
August 4, 2020
Published
2020-10-19

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the world, affecting developing and developed countries alike. Recent advancements in medical and interventional therapies have led to decreasing overall mortality rates in the last decade. Despite these improvements, COPD continues to cause significant morbidity and lost productivity. This review summarizes the pathophysiology of COPD and the work-up of a patient with suspected COPD, emphasizing pulmonary function testing, an approach to treatment, and the management of COPD exacerbations.

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