Pathophysiology Tree for COPD

Chronic inflammation of cells lining the bronchial tree

Degeneration and destruction of lung and supporting tissue

Thickened, edematous airway, excess mucus production, and decreased cilia

function

The degeneration of lung tissue has systemic effects:

Weight loss, muscle wasting, tissue

depletion

Pulmonary hypertension

Decreased exercise tolerance and quality

of lifeDeath

Release of inflammatory mediators

Cor Pulmonale

Chronic, productive cough, wheezing, and

dyspnea, and colonization of the

airway.

Increased respiratory rate

Decreased tissue perfusion

Hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis

Respiratory failure