Acute exacerbations of obstructive lung disease

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Because they are rapidly effective, inhaled beta₂ agonists are the cornerstone of therapy in patients having an acute exacerbation of obstructive lung disease. In addition, inhaled anticholinergics, methylxanthines, systemic corticosteroids, and antibiotics are useful in appropriate situations. The authors describe assessment of these patients (who may be critically ill at presentation), provide recommendations for conventional therapy, and summarize alternative methods.

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Notes on contributors

Robert E. Fromm

Robert E. Fromm Jr, MD, MPH Joseph Varon, MD Dr Fromm is medical director, department of emergency services, The Methodist Hospital, and associate professor, cardiology and pulmonary and critical care medicine sections, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston. Dr Varon, coordinator of this symposium, is a senior fellow, pulmonary and critical care medicine section, Baylor College of Medicine.

Joseph Varon

Robert E. Fromm Jr, MD, MPH Joseph Varon, MD Dr Fromm is medical director, department of emergency services, The Methodist Hospital, and associate professor, cardiology and pulmonary and critical care medicine sections, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston. Dr Varon, coordinator of this symposium, is a senior fellow, pulmonary and critical care medicine section, Baylor College of Medicine.