Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is a major cause of hospital admissions and is associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients requiring ventilatory support. AECOPD can occur at any stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and significantly impairs health-related quality of life. It is estimated that over 210 million individuals worldwide are affected by COPD, with prevalence and mortality projected to rise in coming decades. Clinically, exacerbations are marked by increased dyspnea, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, altered mental status or cor-pulmonale. While many exacerbations can be managed outpatient, severe cases necessitate intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Management strategies aim to restore patients to their baseline functional status, prevent recurrence, and address precipitating factors. Pulmonary rehabilitation has been shown to improve prognosis by targeting deconditioning, exercise capacity, and other modifiable risk factors, particularly in patients with frequent exacerbations. Early identification and structured intervention remain crucial to reducing complications and improving long-term outcomes in patients with AECOPD.
Nour Ahmed Dr. El-Sayed (2025) studied this question.