Abstract

GRASPING THE EVALUATION IN EXACERBATION OF COPD

Melwinraj A.*, Naveena B., Pratheesh Xavier P., Narmatha M. and Thirupathy Kumaresan P.

ABSTRACT

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) represents an important public health challenge and is a major cause of chronic morbidity and mortality throughout the world. COPD is currently the fourth leading cause of death in the world. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) represents an important public health challenge and is a major cause of chronic morbidity and mortality throughout the world. COPD is currently the fourth leading cause of death in the world. Exacerbation frequency is seasonal in many climates. In stable COPD there is an increase in the CD8+ lymphocytes and an increase in neutrophils with more severe disease. Modest increases were seen in neutrophils, T lymphocytes (CD3), and TNF alpha-positive cells.. Expiratory flow limitation [EFL] is a pathophysiological hallmark of COPD. Dynamic hyperinflation (DH) refers to an acute and variable increase in EELV above its baseline value. Oxidative stress is a key factor in the development of airway inflammation in COPD. Respiratory viral infections are the predominant cause, although bacterial infections and environmental factors such as air pollution. Short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists, Systemic steroids shorten recovery time from an AECOPD. Antibiotics are recommended for patients with purulent sputum. Drugs directed against oral flora are indicated. IV theophylline should only use in AECOPD. The goal of oxygen therapy is to prevent tissue hypoxia. The use of NIV effectively unloads the respiratory muscles and reduces the effort on the work of breathing. The indications for bronchodilators and ICS are to improve the symptoms and reduce exacerbations.

Keywords: AECOPD, Expiratory flow limitation [EFL], Dynamic hyperinflation, Chest X-Ray, Bacterial Colonization.