Small airway disease in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: insights and implications for the clinician

摘要: Purpose of review Small airway disease (SAD) is a common feature in chronic obstructive pulmonary (COPD) patients. Chronic exposure to cigarette smoking causes inflammation, damage, tissue remodelling and eventually loss. These features lead airflow limitation defective alveolar ventilation. The aim this provide clinicians with an up-to-date perspective SAD COPD. Recent findings In review, we will discuss the key pathological SAD. We also state-of-the-art techniques for measuring SAD, including impulse oscillometry lung imaging methods. emerging concepts such as earlier stages COPD relationship between emphysema. Summary current highlights importance targeting small airways early course tackle progression.