Study The Effect of Oral Corticosteroid On Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness In patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is one of the most common causes of mortality and morbidity all over the world (Tockman et al., 1989).

In 1995, the American Thoracic Society defined the condition as a disease state characterized by the presence of airflow obstruction due to chronic bronchitis or emphysema, the airflow obstruction is generally progressive, may be accompanied by airway hyperreactivity, and may be partially reversible.

In 1991, COPD was the fourth leading cause of death in the USA and was the most rapidly increasing cause of death between 1979 and 1991 ( a 30% increase) (Feinlieb et al., 1989).

Thus, more concern and researches began by many international societies to find out the best long-term management to these patients. Aiming to control the acute attacks as well as long-term management, putting in mind the economic perspective. The pharmacological management of COPD frequently poses a clinical dilemma to both primary care and subspecialty physicians (Callahan et al., 1991).

For several years, corticosteroids have been accepted treatment for obstructive airways disease, but their efficacy in certain sub-population is not well documented. Many studies have shown that patients with acute as well as stable asthma