Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: systemic impact, complications, and therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive condition that affects multiple organ systems due to systemic inflammation and persistent airflow limitation, leading to respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, and neuropsychiatric complications. This study systematically reviewed the literature to assess the systemic manifestations of COPD and the available therapeutic strategies, analyzing studies published in the last eight years in recognized scientific databases. The results show that complications such as respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and neuropsychiatric disorders significantly worsen patients' functionality and prognosis. The clinical management of COPD includes bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation, and smoking cessation, with a multidisciplinary approach being essential to minimize complications and improve clinical outcomes. Despite therapeutic advances, challenges remain, such as the need for greater treatment adherence and more personalized strategies. It is concluded that ongoing research on biomarkers and new interventions may contribute to more effective COPD management, reducing its complications and improving patients' quality of life.