Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to coexistent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

Sanja JelicDivision of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USAAbstract: The high prevalence of both obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Western societies is well documented. However, OSA frequently remains unrecognized and untreated among patients with COPD. Patients with both conditions have a greater risk for fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events compared with patients with COPD or OSA alone. Efficacious treatment with continuous positive airway pressure reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with OSA. The aim of the present review is to discuss the diagnostic approach to patients with both conditions and to delineate the benefits of timely ecognition and treatment of OSA in patients with COPD.Keywords: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure, nocturnal arterial oxyhemoglobin desaturation