Bronchiectasis in older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease : prevalence, diagnosis and therapeutic management.

The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) increases with age. Recent evidence suggests that the finding of co-existent bronchiectasis is becoming increasingly common, possibly because of increased use of high-resolution CT scanning in the assessment of patients with COPD. This may represent a distinct phenotype of COPD, but, nevertheless, it is likely to pose an increased burden to health services and challenges in determining the correct management of these patients. Here, we review the factors associated with bronchiectasis in older patients with COPD and the evidence for many of the therapies currently used in the treatment of patients, providing a rational approach to their management.