Therapeutic strategy in acute or chronic airflow limitation
The fragility of patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) accounts for their frequent hospitalization and their high intensive care unit risk. Therapy for AECOPD is varied and the need for hospitalization must be always carefully evaluated, considering the risk factors related to the presence of multi-resistant pathogens or the need of invasive procedures. The prolonged use of oxygen therapy requires an accurate monitoring of blood gases and continuous oximetry. Inhalation therapy can be performed using nebulizers, predosed aerosols or powders for inhalation. Corticosteroids for oral and systemic use now play an established role in AECOPD, because bacterial infections account for 50% of exacerbations. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) must be considered the first option in AECOPD patients and acute respiratory failure if there are no contraindications. The careful monitoring of the patient and the response to NIV are indispensable elements for therapeutic success.