Respiratory medicine
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Respiratory medicine · Jul 2012
ReviewAirway bacterial colonization: the missing link between COPD and cardiovascular events?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide and, according to the World Health Organization, its prevalence will double by 2020. COPD is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lung characterized by poorly reversible airflow limitation and, frequently, by extrapulmonary manifestations. In particular, the cardiovascular manifestations are responsible for high morbidity and mortality. ⋯ COPD is associated with an increased burden of atherosclerotic disease. Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress play key roles in this association. COPD patients with airway bacterial colonization, as compared to patients without airway colonization, generally present more frequent exacerbations and higher levels of both airway and systemic inflammation. This COPD subgroup should be considered at particularly increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications and receive more attention concerning diagnosis, treatment, prevention and research.