Author/Editor		Debeljak, Andrej
Title		Diagnoza kronične obstruktivne pljučne bolezni (KOPB)
Translated title		Diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Type		članek
Source		In: Šorli J, editor. Zbornik predavanj Obravnava bolnika s KOPB (predlogi za nacionalna priporočila); 1997 jun 13-14; Portorož. Ljubljana: Pnevmološka sekcija Slovenskega zdravniškega društva,
Publication year		1997
Volume		str. 39-46
Language		slo
Abstract		The primary cause of COPD is inhalation of cigarette smoke. We should think of COPD in patients in whom productive cough was persisting for three months in two successive years. Later in the course of the disease dyspnea is present. COPD can be confirmed only if we exclude other diseases of the lung and heart, that can be responsible for chronic productive cough and breathlessness. In advanced COPD physical examination reveals the signs of overinflation, prolonged expiratory time, wheezing and signs of the right heart failure. Lung function tests, especially spirometry are necessary for the diagnosis together with the assessment of the severity and the course of the disease. The air flow limitation in COPD is chronic, largely irreversible. Arterial blood gas analysis is necessary to evaluate the degree of respiratory insufficiency in more severe stages of COPD. Chest x-ray helps to exclude other diseases. The single breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity and computed tomography are useful to confirm the pulmonary emphysema.
Descriptors		LUNG DISEASES, OBSTRUCTIVE MEDICAL HISTORY TAKING PHYSICAL EXAMINATION RESPIRATORY FUNCTION TESTS