Pathology of COPD and asthma

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the lung characterized by poorly reversible airflow limitation. It is not a unique disease entity but rather a complex of conditions which include emphysema, chronic bronchitis and, sometimes, asthma. Cigarette smoking, which is the most important risk factor for the development of COPD, induces pathological changes involving lung parenchyma, peripheral airways and central airways.