Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease: (Bronchitis-Emphysema Syndrome)

Abstract

Chronic obstructive lung disease (the bronchitis-emphysema syndrome) is manifested by a wide range of clinical and physiologic abnormalities. It should be suspected in any patient with dyspnea or chronic cough of uncertain cause. Definitive diagnosis requires demonstration of expiratory slowing that persists despite prolonged intensive medical management. All other causes for the pulmonary dysfunction also need to be excluded. The diagnosis should not be made solely on the basis of x-ray findings or an abnormal chest contour. Contrariwise it should not be excluded because of seemingly normal radiographic and physical findings.