COPD Flashcards
Effects of inflammation of small airways
predominance of neutrophils, macrophages, cytotoxic T lymphocytes
progressive narrowing
fibrosis
destruction of lung parenchyma
destruction of alveolar walls
Results of inflammation
airway closure on expiration
air trapping and hyperinflation – DOE and exercise limitation
COPD: reversible
mucus and inflammatory cells and mediators in secretions
bronchial smooth muscle contraction in airways
dynamic hyperinflation during exercise
COPD: irreversible
fibrosis and narrowing of airways
reduced elastic recoil and loss of alveolar surface area
destruction of alveolar support with reduced patency of small airways
COPD: symptoms
chronic progressive dyspnea
cough
sputum production
wheezing and chest tightness
fatigue, weight loss, anorexia, syncope, rib fractures, ankle swelling, depression, anxiety
COPD: goals
prevent disease progression
relieve symptoms
improve exercise tolerance improve overall health status prevent and treat exacerbations prevent and treat complications reduce morbidity and mortality
Classification of airflow limitation (post bronchodilator FEV1)
gold 1: mild: 80+%
gold 2: moderate: 50-79%
gold 3: severe: 30-49%
gold 4: very severe: <30%
COPD exacerbation
acute worsening of respiratory symptoms that result in additional therapy
Mild Exacerbation
treated with SABDs only
Moderate Exacerbation
treated with SABDs + antibiotics +/- oral corticosteroids
Severe Exacerbation
requires hospitalization or ER
may also be associated with acute respiratory failure
Blood Eosinophil Count
may predict exacerbation rates (in patients treated with LABA without ICS)
Bronchodilator: Beta Agonist: short acting
ex: albuterol
rapid onset (5 min) duration: 2-6 hr
not as effective as in asthma
small improvement in FEV1
may improve respiratory symptoms and exercise tolerance
Bronchodilator: Beta Agonist: long acting
superior outcomes in lung function
reduced exacerbation frequency
improved quality of life
Bronchodilator: Beta Agonist: ADEs
sinus tachycardia, rhythm disturbances
skeletal muscle tremors (subside as tolerance develops)
Bronchodilator: Antimuscarinic (Anticholinergic)
ex: ipratropium (short), tiotropium (long)
competitively inhibit cholinergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle –> bronchodilation
long acting: equal or greater efficacy than LABA
improve lung function
improve quality of life
reduce frequency of exacerbation/hospitalizations
lower morbidity and mortality risk
ADE:
dry mouth
nausea
metallic taste