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Background: Based on studies published as recently as 2019 and guidelines published as recently as 2020, authors offer a succinct review of practical approaches for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management.
Screening
Do not screen asymptomatic adults.
Screen patients with spirometry when they have chronic respiratory symptoms and noxious exposures history (e.g., smoking, workplace vapors).
Diagnostic Testing
In patients with confirmed COPD on spirometry, various testing can guide management: full pulmonary function tests (PFTs), arterial blood gas test, 6-minute walk test, blood eosinophil count, and chest computed tomography.
Consider measuring α1-antitrypsin levels in symptomatic patients, particularly those w…