Annexin A1: circulating markers for exacerbation of COPD

<title>Extract</title> Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a syndrome defined by persistent airflow limitation and symptoms such as chronic cough, wheezing, and exertional dyspnea [1, 2]. Exacerbations of COPD cause morbidity, hospital admissions, and mortality, and strongly influence health-related quality of life. Some patients are prone to frequent exacerbations, which are associated with considerable physiologic deterioration and increased airway inflammation [3]. Approximately half of COPD exacerbations are caused or triggered primarily by bacterial and viral infections (colds, especially from rhinovirus), although exposure to air pollution also contributes to their onset [3]. Exacerbations are clinically classified into three types: Type 1 involves increased dyspnea, sputum volume, and sputum purulence; Type 2 includes any two of these features; and Type 3 involves one of these features accompanied by either cough, wheeze, or upper respiratory tract infection symptoms [1]. COPD exacerbations occur more frequently than previously thought, with patients experiencing an average of 2.5–3 episodes per year. Many of these events are managed in the community and do not result in hospital admission [1–3].