Cough and sputum production for at least 3 months in each of 2 consecutive years, reduced ciliary function, bronchial walls thickening, narrowed bronchial airways, and susceptibility to respiratory infections.

What are the consequences of scar tissue in the airways and parenchyma in COPD?

Scar tissue in the airways results in narrowing, while scar tissue in the parenchyma decreases elastic recoil (compliance).

How does scar tissue in the pulmonary vasculature contribute to COPD?

Scar tissue in the pulmonary vasculature causes thickened vessel lining and hypertrophy of smooth muscle, leading to pulmonary hypertension.

Study Notes

Definition of COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease state characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible.
COPD includes diseases that cause airflow obstruction, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, or a combination of these disorders.
Asthma is not considered part of COPD due to its reversibility, and is instead classified as a separate disorder with abnormal airway condition characterized by reversible inflammation.

Classification of Chronic Pulmonary Disorders

COPD is a chronic pulmonary disorder.
Asthma, bronchiectasis, and cystic fibrosis are also classified as chronic pulmonary disorders, but are distinct from COPD.

Test your knowledge on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) with this quiz covering the definition, pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, assessment, diagnostic findings, stages, complications, medical and nursing management, and more.