Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Diagnosis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airflow limitation. Without early diagnosis and intervention, the condition often gradually progresses, ultimately leading to irreversible lung function decline. Clinically, diagnosis mainly relies on pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and laboratory indicators to determine the presence of disease and assess type and severity.

Diagnostic Basis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

1. Pulmonary Function Test as the Core Basis

Pulmonary function testing is the “gold standard” for COPD diagnosis. By measuring the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the ratio of forced vital capacity (FVC), an FEV1/FVC of less than 70% indicates airflow limitation and serves as the basis for diagnosis.

2. Dyspnea Scoring as an Auxiliary Assessment

Tools such as the mMRC Dyspnea Scale or CAT assessment can be used for scoring to understand the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life, providing a basis for treatment planning.

3. Imaging Examination for Supportive Judgment

Chest X-rays or CT scans can reveal emphysema and enlarged air spaces, helping to identify chronic structural changes in the lungs and rule out other pulmonary diseases such as tuberculosis or lung cancer.

4. Arterial Blood Gas Analysis to Assess Gas Exchange

In moderate to severe COPD, arterial blood gas analysis can help determine the presence of hypoxemia or carbon dioxide retention, guiding the need for oxygen therapy or ventilatory support.

5. Inflammatory Markers and Biochemical Tests

Blood tests such as complete blood count, CRP, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein reflect chronic inflammatory status. Combined with respiratory secretion culture, they help identify infection exacerbations.

6. History of Chronic Cough and Sputum

A long-term history of recurrent cough and sputum production often signals disease, especially among smokers. Attention should be paid to the persistence and changes of symptoms, suggesting chronic airway inflammation.

7. Differential Diagnosis to Exclude Other Diseases

It is necessary to distinguish COPD from bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis, and cardiogenic dyspnea. Clinical manifestations combined with diagnostic indicators help avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment.

8. Exercise Tolerance Test for Functional Assessment

Tests such as the 6-minute walk test or stair climbing assess exercise tolerance and oxygen saturation changes, indirectly reflecting lung function and activity limitations.

9. Precision Evaluation Before Stem Cell Therapy

If stem cell therapy is considered, a comprehensive assessment of pulmonary structure and immune status is required to determine inflammation levels and organ reserve function, ensuring treatment safety and efficacy.

Conclusion

The accuracy of COPD diagnosis directly determines the effectiveness of subsequent treatment plans. Experts at United Life International Medical Center recommend that long-term smokers and individuals with chronic cough and sputum history undergo early screening. A combination of pulmonary function tests, imaging, and biochemical examinations enables early detection and timely treatment, improving quality of life.