Phenotype-based management in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disease of the lungs with systemic manifestations that affect the phenotypic expression of the disease, its course and outcomes. COPD associated with significant morbidity and mortality globally. According to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) update, it causes the death of ≥ 2,9 million people annually and in 2013, was the 12th cause of global years of life lost. The identifi cation of clinical phenotypes of COPD reflects the heterogeneity of the disease and helps clinicians to select the most suitable treatment for their patients.