Expert review of respiratory medicine最新文献

Introduction: Expert management of Complex Obstructive Airway Diseases (COAD) requires knowledge, resources, and skills that are commonly shared in the management of the different conditions usually included in the acronym, namely asthma, bronchiectasis, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). We discuss the basis to shift the paradigm of single-disease management into a holistic approach and describe its potential benefits.

Areas covered: The prevalence and significance of the overlap between the different conditions is reviewed. Literature research on the topic of treatable traits in airway diseases is analyzed, with special emphasis in the role of an expert nurse and the multidisciplinary team approach for the management of asthma, bronchiectasis, and COPD. Finally, we describe the experience and organization of a COAD unit addressing desirable clinical outcomes and patient-related outcome measures.

Expert opinion: The division between different airway diseases generates confusion when the diseases present features common to various airway conditions. We describe here how a holistic approach of the airway disease process based on treatable traits regardless the diagnostic label reverts in a more efficient use of resources and better clinical outcomes. The role of an expert respiratory nurse and a multidisciplinary team are key areas for improvement.

Introduction: Amyloidosis, a polymeric deposition disease classified according to protein subtype, may have varied pulmonary manifestations. Its anatomic-radiologic phenotypes include nodular, cystic, alveolar-septal, and tracheobronchial forms. Clinical presentation may range from asymptomatic parenchymal nodules to respiratory failure from diffuse parenchymal infiltration or diaphragmatic deposition.

Areas covered: In this review, we systematically describe the molecular subtypes of amyloidosis and their clinical and radiologic findings in the lungs as well as key extrapulmonary organ systems. We detail novel treatment approaches to systemic amyloidosis. We also discuss prognostic elements for each subtype. We identify key clinical scenarios where reaching a precise diagnosis can be complicated, and we offer insights on the varied presentations of pulmonary amyloidosis.

Expert opinion: Pulmonary amyloidosis is often difficult to diagnose as it may mimic other conditions, including fibrotic interstitial lung diseases and neoplasms, or can co-exist with certain connective tissue diseases. Despite some early artificial intelligence screening tools, improved familiarity among clinicians can aid in the more accurate and timely diagnosis of this multidimensional clinical entity. We additionally believe that multidisciplinary clinical pathwaysto diagnose and/or treat pulmonary amyloidosis have the potential to improve awareness, decrease diagnostic delay, and further elucidate knowledge on this multifaceted disease.

Introduction: To evaluate the effectiveness of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) versus standard therapy in severe asthma exacerbations through meta-analysis.

Methods: Nine randomized controlled trials (344 patients) were analyzed from inception to August 2024. Primary outcomes included respiratory rate, forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1), and oxygen saturation (SpO2). Random effect models and trial sequential analyses were employed.

Results: NPPV demonstrated significant reduction in respiratory rate versus standard therapy (mean difference [MD] -3.97, 95% CI -7.32 to -0.61, p = 0.02), though with high heterogeneity (I² = 87%). FEV1 showed significant improvement with NPPV (MD 15.56%, 95% CI 6.86 to 24.26, p < 0.001) based on two studies. SpO2 showed no significant improvement (MD 0.62%, 95% CI -0.14 to 1.37, p = 0.11). No differences were found between pediatric and adult populations. Trial sequential analyses indicated insufficient evidence for definitive conclusions regarding respiratory rate and SpO2 improvements.

Conclusions: While NPPV may benefit severe asthma patients, particularly in reducing respiratory rate and improving FEV1, current evidence is insufficient for recommending routine clinical use. Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to establish NPPV's effectiveness in severe asthma exacerbation treatment.

Protocol registration: registration ID CRD42024580051.

Introduction: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a broad group of conditions characterized by fibrosis of the lung parenchyma. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common subvariant. IPF is marked by considerable symptom burden of dyspnea, cough and fatigue that is often refractory to optimal disease-directed treatment.

Areas covered: In this narrative review, we searched MEDLINE for articles related to the current evidence regarding management of chronic dyspnea, cough, and fatigue as three of the most prevalent and distressing symptoms associated with IPF and other ILDs. Each symptom shares common features of multi-factorial etiology and a lack of safe and effective pharmacological therapies. Both corticosteroids and opioids have been utilized in this context, yet there is insufficient evidence of therapeutic benefit and considerable risk of harms. Whilst some may benefit from symptom-directed pharmacological management, usage must be carefully monitored. Use of non-pharmacological strategies, such as breathing techniques and speech therapy represent low risk and low-cost option, yet broader validation of these therapies' effectiveness is needed.

Expert opinion: Symptom management in IPF and other ILDs requires an iterative and individualized approach. Leveraging the expertise of multidisciplinary teams within an integrated care setting is an important opportunity to maximize health outcomes.

Introduction: Situs inversus is a rare congenital condition where the organs in the chest and abdomen are reversed, thus complicating surgeries such as lung transplantation. Kartagener syndrome (KS), associated with situs inversus, includes chronic sinusitis and bronchiectasis, which can progress to end-stage lung disease requiring transplantation. This review discusses the unique surgical considerations, technical challenges, and outcomes of lung transplantation in patients with situs inversus, particularly KS.

Areas covered: The review highlights anatomical and physiological challenges in lung transplantation due to reversed organ positioning, requiring customized surgical approaches and intraoperative modifications. Preoperative imaging, anesthesia adjustments, and tailored surgical techniques are crucial for successful transplantation. Postoperative care focuses on managing complications such as primary graft dysfunction, infections, and anastomotic issues. Literature on survival rates, chronic lung allograft dysfunction, and quality of life is analyzed, indicating outcomes comparable to other lung transplant recipients.

Expert opinion: Despite significant challenges, lung transplantation in patients with situs inversus and KS is feasible with outcomes similar to traditional cases. Advances in imaging, surgical planning, and minimally invasive techniques offer promise for improved outcomes. Ongoing research, collaboration, and ethical considerations are essential to optimizing care and expand treatment possibilities for this high-risk patient population.

Introduction: In genetically predisposed individuals, exposure to aeroallergens and infections from RNA viruses shape epithelial barrier function, leading to Allergic Asthma (AA). Here, activated pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in lower airway sentinel cells signal epithelial injury-repair pathways leading to cell-state changes [epithelial mesenchymal plasticity (EMP)], barrier disruption and sensitization.

Areas covered: 1. Characteristics of sentinel epithelial cells of the bronchoalveolar junction, 2. The effect of aeroallergens on epithelial PRRs, 3. Role of tight junctions (TJs) in barrier function and how aeroallergens disrupt their function, 4. Induction of mucosal TGF autocrine loops activating type-2 innate lymphoid cells (ICL2s) leading to Th2 polarization, 5. How respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) directs goblet cell hyperplasia, and 6. Coupling of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress to metabolic adaptations and effects on basal lamina remodeling.

Expert opinion: When aeroallergens or viral infections activate innate immunity in sentinel cells of the bronchoalveolar junction, normal barrier function is disrupted, promoting chronic inflammation and Th2 responses. An improved mechanistic understanding of how activated PRRs induce EMP couples with TJ disruption, metabolic reprogramming and ECM deposition provides new biologically validated targets to restore barrier function, reduce sensitization, and remodeling in AA.

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is frequently accompanied by a variety of comorbidities, complicating management and rehabilitation efforts. Understanding this interplay is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

Areas covered: This review, based on the MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases, summarizes the main research on the rehabilitation of patients with COPD, with an emphasis on relevant comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary hypertension, lung cancer, metabolic, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal disorders. anxiety/depression and cognitive disorders. The study highlights the importance of pre-participation assessments, ongoing monitoring and personalized rehabilitation programs. A review includes a comprehensive literature search to assess the scientific evidence on these interventions and their impact.

Expert opinion: The integration of cardiorespiratory rehabilitation program is essential for improving physical capacity and quality of life in COPD patients with comorbidities. While existing studies highlight positive outcomes, challenges such as interdisciplinary collaboration and access to rehabilitation services remain. Future strategies must prioritize personalized and integrated approaches programs combining pharmacological optimization and a close monitoring during cardiopulmonary rehabilitation to significantly reduce hospital readmissions and mortality, even in patients with complex multimorbidities. Continued research is necessary to refine rehabilitation protocols and better understand the complexities of managing COPD alongside cardiac conditions.

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited hemoglobinopathy characterized by the production of sickle hemoglobin, leading to red blood cells sickling and hemolysis in hypoxic conditions. The resulting acute and chronic endothelial inflammation leads to chronic organ damage. Respiratory manifestations in SCD usually start from childhood and represent the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Nevertheless, they are generally poorly addressed or recognized later in life, often contributing to a more severe course and complications.

Areas covered: This narrative review aims to outline the significant acute and chronic respiratory manifestations in children with SCD, focusing on prevention and clinical management. Compelling issues that need to be addressed in the future are also discussed. We searched the PubMed database for original papers written in English. Age restrictions were set for children (birth to 18 years). No limitations were set for the date and study country.

Expert opinion: Early detection and treatment of respiratory manifestations in SCD should be central to follow-up with patients affected by SCD. Nonetheless, studies are lacking, especially in pediatric age, and there is still no consensus on their management. Further research is strongly needed to accomplish universally accepted guidelines to guarantee patients the best care possible.