The incidence of airflow obstruction in bronchial carcinoma, its relation to breathlessness, and response to bronchodilator therapy

Breathlessness is a common symptom in patients with primary bronchial carcinoma and is often not well-controlled. Most patients are ex- or current smokers, and therefore are at high risk for co-existing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The incidence of airflow obstruction in patients with bronchial carcinoma, its relation to breathlessness, and response to bronchodilator therapy was examined prospectively. Fifty-seven consecutive patients attending our outpatient clinic with bronchial carcinoma diagnosed in the preceding 12 months were studied (22 female, 35 male, mean age 68·4 years). Spirometry was performed and breathlessness rated. Those with airflow obstruction (FEV 1:FVC