Donald P. Tashkin, M.D. N Engl J Med 2010; 363:1183-1184, September 16, 2010
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a partially reversible disorder characterized by progressive airflow obstruction, the course of which is punctuated by episodes of acute symptomatic worsening (exacerbations) of variable severity and frequency.
Exacerbations have an important effect on both the patient and society, including worsening health status and increased risks of hospitalization — with its attendant costs — and death.1 Because of these negative consequences, prevention of exacerbations is recommended as a key goal of COPD management.1 Given its symptomatic nature, however, and the absence of a readily available and validated biomarker, there is no complete consensus regarding the . . .
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