Advances in Respiratory Medicine

14 pages, 2741 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Evaluating the Impact of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Respiratory Function and Exercise Capacity in Pulmonary Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Saja Alrashedi, Lama Alharbi, Meshal Alotaibi, Inad Alzahrani, Albara Jad, Qamar Aldoboke, Suroor Algethami, Raghda Alrabah, Rana Alharbi, Ali Al Nuwaiser and Mohammed Al-Hariri

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010013 - 15 Feb 2026

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Abstract

(1) Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by respiratory muscle weakness, limited exercise tolerance, and reduced quality of life, but inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has emerged as a potential non-pharmacological strategy to improve functional outcomes in this population. This systematic review and meta-analysis [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by respiratory muscle weakness, limited exercise tolerance, and reduced quality of life, but inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has emerged as a potential non-pharmacological strategy to improve functional outcomes in this population. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of isolated IMT on respiratory function, exercise capacity, symptom burden, and safety in adults with PH. (2) Methods: A systematic search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials involving adults with PH who underwent isolated IMT were included, and respiratory muscle strength, spirometric parameters, exercise capacity, dyspnea, fatigue, quality of life, and adverse events were the outcomes that were assessed. Data were pooled using meta-analytic techniques where appropriate. (3) Results: A total of 130 participants, assigned to five randomized controlled trials, met the inclusion criteria. IMT significantly improved maximal inspiratory pressure (MD = +24.01 cmH₂O), maximal expiratory pressure (MD = +23.64 cmH₂O), and six-minute walk distance (MD = +60.61 m), but no significant changes were observed in spirometric indices (FEV₁%, FVC%, and FEV₁/FVC). While several individual studies demonstrated clinically relevant improvements in six-minute walk distance, the pooled analysis did not demonstrate a statistically significant effect. IMT consistently reduced dyspnea and fatigue and improved quality-of-life domains. No serious adverse events were reported, and adherence was high. (4) Conclusions: IMT is a safe and feasible adjunct intervention in PH, providing meaningful improvements in respiratory muscle strength and symptom burden. Further large-scale trials are warranted to confirm its long-term clinical benefits. Full article

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16 pages, 5313 KB

Open AccessArticle

Trend Analysis of Respiratory Disease Mortality in the Population Aged 65 and over in Poland: Results from a Registry Study (2000–2022)

by Monika Burzyńska and Małgorzata Pikala

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010012 - 14 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Background: Respiratory diseases remain a major contributor to mortality in Europe, yet national long-term analyses rarely explore sex- and age-specific temporal patterns in detail. Large international datasets provide aggregated estimates but may obscure country-specific trend changes relevant for public health planning. The [...] Read more.

Background: Respiratory diseases remain a major contributor to mortality in Europe, yet national long-term analyses rarely explore sex- and age-specific temporal patterns in detail. Large international datasets provide aggregated estimates but may obscure country-specific trend changes relevant for public health planning. The aim of the study was to assess long-term trends in mortality from chronic lower respiratory diseases (ICD-10: J40–J47) as well as pneumonia and influenza. (ICD-10: J10–J18) in Poland, with particular emphasis on sex- and age-specific trajectories and joinpoint-defined changes over time. Methods: All deaths among Polish residents aged ≥65 years were analysed using nationwide mortality registry data. Age-standardised death rates (SDRs) were calculated, and temporal trends were assessed using joinpoint regression models to estimate annual percentage changes (APC) and average annual percentage change (AAPC). Results: The proportion of deaths attributable to respiratory diseases increased in both men and women across early (65–74 years) and late (≥75 years) old age. Mortality from chronic lower respiratory diseases declined throughout the study period among men, with the most pronounced reductions observed in the early 2000s, particularly among those aged ≥75 years, while trends among women remained largely stable or showed only gradual declines. In contrast, mortality from pneumonia and influenza rose markedly across all sex and age subgroups, with distinct trend reversals observed after 2008–2009. Conclusions: Long-term respiratory mortality trends in Poland exhibit marked sex- and age-specific differences that are not fully captured by aggregated international analyses. These findings highlight the importance of country-level, stratified assessments when interpreting respiratory mortality patterns and underscore the need for caution when relying on single time-point indicators for risk assessment and policy planning. Full article

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7 pages, 575 KB

Open AccessCommunication

The Role of L-Arginine and Liposomal Vitamin C Supplementation as an Adjunct in Seasonal Respiratory Viral Infection Recovery

by Valentina Trimarco, Paola Gallo, Seyedali Ghazihosseini, Alessia Izzo, Paola Ida Rozza, Alessandra Spinelli, Stefano Cristiano, Carlo De Rosa, Felicia Rozza and Carmine Morisco

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010011 - 9 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Respiratory seasonal viral infections remain one of the most important issues in community medicine. The heterogeneity of etiological agents and the characteristics of the hosts airway antiviral defenses account for the complex management of these infections. The clinical consequence of this picture is [...] Read more.

Respiratory seasonal viral infections remain one of the most important issues in community medicine. The heterogeneity of etiological agents and the characteristics of the hosts airway antiviral defenses account for the complex management of these infections. The clinical consequence of this picture is that, despite the widespread use of vaccination as the primary prevention strategy, the rates of acute respiratory complications remain still high. In addition, they determine post-infectious fatigue and organ dysfunction. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the principal pathogenic mechanisms responsible for clinical complications during respiratory seasonal viral infections. Nowadays, a growing body of evidence indicates that adjunctive nutritional support can contribute to relieve the symptoms during the acute and subacute phases of respiratory viral infections. We assess the data in the literature regarding the combination of L-Arginine and Liposomal Vitamin C as adjuvant treatment for respiratory seasonal viral infections. The database of the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) was searched using the keywords “L-Arginine, Vitamin C, dietary supplements, seasonal respiratory viral infections”. The treatment of symptoms during acute and post-acute respiratory viral infections requires an integrated approach that includes vitamins and nutritional supplementation. The combination of L-Arginine and Liposomal Vitamin C seems to represent a nutritional support able to mitigate symptoms occurring during the acute or post-acute phase of infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases in Respiratory Medicine)

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9 pages, 625 KB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Causes, Severity, and Treatment Outcomes Between Women and Men with Chronic Cough

by Aleksandra Marchwińska, Katarzyna Mazurek, Katarzyna Białek-Gosk, Elżbieta M. Grabczak, Olga Truba, Karolina Klimowicz and Marta Dąbrowska

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010010 - 9 Feb 2026

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Abstract

A chronic cough, defined as a cough persisting for more than eight weeks in adults, is a common clinical problem with a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. This study compares the etiological spectrum and treatment effectiveness of chronic cough in male [...] Read more.

A chronic cough, defined as a cough persisting for more than eight weeks in adults, is a common clinical problem with a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. This study compares the etiological spectrum and treatment effectiveness of chronic cough in male and female patients. A retrospective analysis was conducted on a cohort of patients diagnosed in the cough clinic between 2017 and 2021. The response to treatment was assessed based on the reduction in cough severity measured using a 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS). This study included 231 patients: 164 women (70.9%) and 67 men (29.1%). The median duration of cough was 48 months (IQR 24–120). There were no gender differences in age, BMI, smoking history, cough duration, or severity at the initial visit. Upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) were diagnosed more frequently in men than in women (UACS: 75% vs. 53%, p = 0.002; OSA: 21% vs. 6%, p = 0.001). Cough severity significantly decreased in both groups; the median VAS score dropped from 55 to 40 mm in women (p < 0.0001) and from 69 to 39 mm in men (p = 0.009). The effectiveness of chronic cough treatment, measured by the median reduction in VAS score, was greater in men than in women (32 mm vs. 17.5 mm, p = 0.006). These gender-specific differences in cough etiology and treatment response suggest that a “one-size-fits-all” approach may be inadequate. Full article

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11 pages, 4103 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Neutralization of Microbiota-Derived Corisin Shows Early Amelioration of Advanced Pulmonary Fibrosis

by Kazuki Furuhashi, Hajime Fujimoto, Masaaki Toda, Corina N. D’Alessandro-Gabazza, Atsuro Takeshita, Kota Nishihama, Tomohito Okano, Haruko Saiki, Atsushi Tomaru, Valeria Fridman D’Alessandro, Isaac Cann, Esteban C. Gabazza, Taro Yasuma, Osamu Hataji and Tetsu Kobayashi

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010009 - 6 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Background: Corisin, a microbiota-derived proapoptotic peptide, has emerged as a key mediator of epithelial injury, inflammation, and acute exacerbation in fibrotic lung disease. Although acute corisin inhibition prevents exacerbations in experimental models, its therapeutic impact on established pulmonary fibrosis remains unclear. This study [...] Read more.

Background: Corisin, a microbiota-derived proapoptotic peptide, has emerged as a key mediator of epithelial injury, inflammation, and acute exacerbation in fibrotic lung disease. Although acute corisin inhibition prevents exacerbations in experimental models, its therapeutic impact on established pulmonary fibrosis remains unclear. This study evaluated the short-term efficacy of corisin neutralization in advanced transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-driven lung fibrosis. Methods: Male TGF-β1 transgenic mice with established fibrosis were allocated to computed tomography-matched groups and treated intraperitoneally with an anti-corisin monoclonal antibody (clone 21A) or control IgG every two days for one week. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis, histopathology, assessment of apoptosis, Ashcroft scoring, and lung hydroxyproline quantification were performed on day 8. Results: Anti-corisin treatment significantly reduced BALF inflammatory cell counts, including macrophages and lymphocytes. Histological analyses demonstrated decreased alveolar epithelial apoptosis, reduced collagen deposition, and significantly lower Ashcroft fibrosis scores. Lung hydroxyproline content was also markedly decreased, indicating attenuation of extracellular matrix accumulation. Conclusions: Short-term neutralization of microbiota-derived corisin rapidly alleviates inflammation, epithelial injury, and fibrotic remodeling in advanced TGF-β1-induced pulmonary fibrosis. These findings identify corisin as an upstream driver of ongoing fibrogenesis and support its potential as a therapeutic target in progressive fibrotic lung disease. Full article

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Graphical abstract

12 pages, 780 KB

Open AccessArticle

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Versus Nocturnal Oxygen in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Propensity Score Matching Study

by Carlos Granados-Burgos, Eduardo Tuta-Quintero, Paula Romero, Laura Gómez-Castro, Alirio Bastidas, Johan Rincón, Sergio Torres, Diego Rodríguez, Kamil Faizal, Juan Moreno, Santiago Monsalve, Estefania Couto, Sofia Yanes, David Torres, Juan Sandoval and Juan Hernández

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010008 - 26 Jan 2026

Viewed by 296

Abstract

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects quality of life and increases cardiovascular risk. Nocturnal oxygen therapy (NOT) offers a potential alternative for patients intolerant to CPAP. The objective of this study was to compare NOT and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) by evaluating [...] Read more.

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects quality of life and increases cardiovascular risk. Nocturnal oxygen therapy (NOT) offers a potential alternative for patients intolerant to CPAP. The objective of this study was to compare NOT and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) by evaluating five-year survival in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using propensity score matching (PSM) methodology. A PSM analysis was conducted to reduce selection bias due to differences in baseline characteristics between patients using CPAP and those receiving oxygen therapy. Balance between treated and untreated groups was assessed using standardized mean differences. A PSM was estimated using a logistic regression model, matching patients adherent to CPAP therapy to those treated with NOT. Results: A total of 497 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of OSA were included in the analysis. The mean age was 62.1 years (SD13.6), and 54.3% (270/497) were male. Overall, 42.1% (209/497) of the patients were over 65 years old. Of the total, 303 patients received CPAP therapy and 194 received NOT. After PSM, a matched cohort of 370 patients (185 per group) was obtained. The CPAP-treated group showed a significantly lower residual Apnea–Hypopnea Index compared to the oxygen therapy group (3.9, IQR: 1.8–6.5 vs. 15, IQR:7.5–29.1; p < 0.001), indicating better physiological control of respiratory events. Treatment with CPAP was associated with a significantly lower risk of mortality compared with NOT across analytical approaches, including weighted logistic regression (OR = 0.11; 95% CI 0.02–0.48; p = 0.004) and PSM with bootstrap estimation (ATT = −0.12; 95% CI −0.22 to −0.01; p = 0.030). Conclusions: In this cohort, higher five-year survival was observed among patients with OSA treated with CPAP compared with those receiving supplemental oxygen. These findings indicate a favorable association between CPAP use and long-term outcomes, supporting its role as the preferred first-line therapy in patients with OSA. Full article

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9 pages, 976 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Inpatient Uptitration of Inhaled Treprostinil in PH-ILD Patients with Severe Phenotype

by Chebly Dagher, Allysse Thomas, Suzie Al Absi, Brett Carollo, Garrett Fiscus and Raj Parikh

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010007 - 9 Jan 2026

Viewed by 494

Abstract

Pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) is a progressive condition with limited treatment options and associated with high mortality rates. Inhaled treprostinil (iTre) is the only approved therapy for PH-ILD and has been shown to improve exercise capacity and delay disease [...] Read more.

Pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) is a progressive condition with limited treatment options and associated with high mortality rates. Inhaled treprostinil (iTre) is the only approved therapy for PH-ILD and has been shown to improve exercise capacity and delay disease progression. However, the conventional outpatient titration schedule requires 8–16 weeks to achieve therapeutic dosing, which may delay clinical benefit in those with advanced disease. We conducted a retrospective study of six patients with severe PH-ILD admitted to a tertiary academic center for initiation of iTre using a rapid inpatient uptitration protocol. iTre was started at 3 breaths four times daily (QID) and increased by 2 additional breaths every 12–24 h as tolerated, aiming for ≥9–12 breaths QID within one week under close monitoring. All six patients achieved target dosing without dose reduction or interruption. At three-month follow-up, mean pulmonary artery pressure decreased from 42 ± 5.5 to 35.2 ± 4.5 mmHg, pulmonary vascular resistance from 8.0 ± 1.2 to 6.0 ± 0.9 WU, and cardiac index increased from 2.05 ± 0.13 to 2.15 ± 0.12 L/min/m². No readmissions occurred within 90 days. This study demonstrates that rapid inpatient uptitration of iTre in severe PH-ILD is feasible and well-tolerated, with preliminary evidence of short-term hemodynamic improvement. Full article

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17 pages, 1474 KB

Open AccessArticle

Treatment Adherence and Persistence of Anti-Fibrotic Drugs in Real Life in Greece

by Georgia Kourlaba, Stylianos Ravanidis, Garyfallia Stefanou, Konstantinos Mathioudakis, Anastasios Tsolakidis and Dimitrios Zografopoulos

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010006 - 8 Jan 2026

Viewed by 409

Abstract

Background: Nintedanib and pirfenidone are two anti-fibrotic agents for diseases within the interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) spectrum. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis regarding treatment persistence and adherence rates for the Greek territory. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients initiating [...] Read more.

Background: Nintedanib and pirfenidone are two anti-fibrotic agents for diseases within the interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) spectrum. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis regarding treatment persistence and adherence rates for the Greek territory. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients initiating anti-fibrotic treatment during the period 2019–2023, utilizing data extracted from the National Electronic Prescription Database. Treatment persistence was defined as the duration from the date of the first prescription to the end of follow-up, death, or switching to another agent. Adherence was estimated based on the Medication Possession Ratio (MPR) metric. Results: Overall, 2112 patients were analyzed. The majority were naive, male patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The overall median treatment persistence was 40.2 months (95% CI: 35.5–44.6). Women and treatment-naive patients demonstrated longer median treatment persistence compared to their counterparts, while older patients demonstrated the lowest median persistence rates. Adherence levels remained high across the follow-up period (90%). Diagnosis of IPF and gastrointestinal comorbidities were associated with a higher risk of discontinuation. Conclusions: We have generated novel data concerning the factors that affect patients’ outcomes under anti-fibrotic therapy. These findings may provide helpful insights for the therapeutic management of ILDs. Full article

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16 pages, 1457 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Using Machine Learning, Clinical Summary Notes, and Vital Signs: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study in the United States

by Sabrina Meng, Hersh Sagreiya and Negar Orangi-Fard

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010005 - 7 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Early identification and timely intervention for COPD exacerbations can reduce hospitalizations and complications, as well as improve patient outcomes. Methods: To develop and evaluate predictive models for COPD exacerbations [...] Read more.

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Early identification and timely intervention for COPD exacerbations can reduce hospitalizations and complications, as well as improve patient outcomes. Methods: To develop and evaluate predictive models for COPD exacerbations using machine learning (ML), we performed a retrospective study using intensive care unit patient records. Records including 31,667 clinical notes and 10,489 vital signs were used to train and validate two machine learning models to predict COPD exacerbations in patients with known or suspected COPD. Predictive performance was evaluated for support vector machine, quadratic discriminant analysis, and adaptive boosting algorithms using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: The clinical note-based support vector machine model achieved an AUC of 0.81 and accuracy of 84.0% in predicting COPD exacerbations. Data from patient monitors and hospital information systems provided sufficient information for accurate prediction, demonstrating the utility of combining physiological signals with clinical text data. Discussion: Clinically available patient data and vital signs can effectively predict COPD exacerbations, potentially enabling earlier interventions, improved outcomes, and reduced healthcare burden. These findings suggest that integrating unstructured clinical notes with structured vital signs using ML frameworks may improve early detection of exacerbation risk, thus enabling appropriate patient counseling, triage, and treatment based on COPD severity. Full article

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14 pages, 981 KB

Open AccessGuidelines

Recommendations Following Hospitalization for Acute Exacerbation of COPD—A Consensus Statement of the Polish Respiratory Society

by Adam Jerzy Białas, Adam Barczyk, Iwona Damps-Konstańska, Aleksander Kania, Krzysztof Kuziemski, Justyna Ledwoch, Krystyna Rasławska and Małgorzata Czajkowska-Malinowska

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010004 - 4 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Introduction: This document presents recommendations of the Polish Respiratory Society on discharge instructions following hospitalization for an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: The Delphi method was applied to achieve consensus among independent experts. Results: Fourteen recommendations were formulated. Experts emphasized [...] Read more.

Introduction: This document presents recommendations of the Polish Respiratory Society on discharge instructions following hospitalization for an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: The Delphi method was applied to achieve consensus among independent experts. Results: Fourteen recommendations were formulated. Experts emphasized that discharge summaries require clear graphical and editorial design to ensure readability for both patients and healthcare professionals. The involvement of a multidisciplinary team was recommended to provide coherent and comprehensive documentation. Discharge instructions should be discussed with the patient during hospitalization and supplemented with standardized educational materials provided separately. These materials should cover inhaler technique, smoking cessation, physical activity, pulmonary rehabilitation, and vaccination. For patients with respiratory failure, home oxygen therapy or non-invasive ventilation must be addressed. Discharge recommendations should highlight modifications in baseline COPD treatment and management of comorbidities. A personalized action plan for future exacerbations is essential, and dietary consultation is advised. Finally, discharge summaries should specify follow-up appointments and include prescriptions for inhaled medications. Conclusions: The Polish Respiratory Society recommends that discharge instructions be provided to all patients hospitalized for a COPD exacerbation. Full article

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18 pages, 798 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Risk: Investigating the Association Between Elderly-Onset Sarcoidosis (EOS) and Malignancy

by Ahmed Ehab, Axel T. Kempa, Ahmad Shalabi, Noha Elkateb, Nesrine Saad Farrag and Heba Wagih Abdelwahab

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010003 - 2 Jan 2026

Viewed by 600

Abstract

Background: Elderly-onset sarcoidosis > 65 (EOS) is rare and occurs in patients over 65. Studies on its incidence, clinical features, and treatment are limited, and its link to malignancy remains complex. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to analyze the possible association between [...] Read more.

Background: Elderly-onset sarcoidosis > 65 (EOS) is rare and occurs in patients over 65. Studies on its incidence, clinical features, and treatment are limited, and its link to malignancy remains complex. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to analyze the possible association between malignancy and the occurrence of sarcoidosis in elderly patients over 65 years old. Design: Monocentric, nested retrospective case–control study. Material and Methods: A retrospective study analyzed newly diagnosed sarcoidosis patients in the Loewenstein Lung Center, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, categorizing them into younger-onset (<65 years) and elderly-onset (≥65 years). Demographic data, smoking status, medical history, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and any prior malignancy history were collected. Results: A total of 447 patients were included (365 patients within the group of younger-onset sarcoidosis and 82 patients with EOS). The median age of the younger-onset group was 47 (47 [23–63] years), compared to 69 (69 [65–84] years), p ≤ 0.001. Female patients were more prevalent in the group of elderly-onsets (54.9%) compared to the younger-onset group (35.9%), corresponding to an odds ratio of 2.2 (95% CI: 1.3–3.5, p: 0.002). Regarding the past history of malignancy, patients who had a positive history of malignancy were more prevalent among the elderly-onset group (29.6%) compared to the younger-onset group (5%) [OR (95% CI): 8.1 (4.1–15.8), p ≤ 0.001]. In multivariable logistic regression analysis with malignancy as the outcome, increasing age at sarcoidosis diagnosis was independently associated with a higher likelihood of prior malignancy (adjusted OR 1.08 per year, 95% CI 1.04–1.12), whereas sex, smoking status, and cardiometabolic comorbidity (diabetes and/or hypertension) were not independently associated. Conclusions: Elderly-onset sarcoidosis (EOS) is a less frequent variant of sarcoidosis with limited data regarding the possible risk factors. The increased prevalence of malignancy observed among patients with elderly-onset sarcoidosis appeared to be largely driven by age rather than a distinct EOS-specific effect. Age-adjusted analyses are essential when interpreting malignancy risk in sarcoidosis, and future age-matched prospective studies are needed to clarify potential biological links and guide evidence-based screening strategies. Full article

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Graphical abstract

8 pages, 305 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Efficacy of Carbocisteine in Reducing Exacerbations in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Chia Siang Kow, Syed Shahzad Hasan and Kaeshaelya Thiruchelvam

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010002 - 31 Dec 2025

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Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of carbocisteine in reducing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations based on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. [...] Read more.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of carbocisteine in reducing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations based on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. RCTs comparing carbocisteine (1500 mg/day) with placebo in COPD patients, with a minimum follow-up of six months, were included. Data on exacerbation rates and adverse events were extracted and analyzed using a random-effects model. Four RCTs involving 1746 patients met inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis showed that carbocisteine significantly reduced the annual rate of acute exacerbations compared to placebo (WMD = −0.40; 95% CI: −0.69 to −0.11), with no significant increase in adverse events (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.76 to 1.37). Mechanistically, carbocisteine improves mucociliary clearance, suppresses airway inflammation, reduces oxidative stress, and may hinder bacterial colonization. Carbocisteine is associated with a significant reduction in COPD exacerbations and demonstrates a favorable safety profile. It may serve as an effective adjunctive therapy in patients with frequent exacerbations and mucus hypersecretion. Full article

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17 pages, 354 KB

Open AccessReview

Physical and Physiological Mechanisms of Emergent Hydrodynamic Pressure in High-Flow Nasal Cannula Therapy

by Jose Luis Estela-Zape

Adv. Respir. Med. 2026, 94(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm94010001 - 26 Dec 2025

Viewed by 739

Abstract

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is frequently described as a positive pressure modality, yet this classification lacks mechanistic support. This critical narrative review integrates experimental, computational, and clinical evidence to examine the established physiological mechanisms underlying HFNC, with emphasis on precise terminology. The [...] Read more.

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is frequently described as a positive pressure modality, yet this classification lacks mechanistic support. This critical narrative review integrates experimental, computational, and clinical evidence to examine the established physiological mechanisms underlying HFNC, with emphasis on precise terminology. The study clarifies that labeling HFNC as “positive pressure” is conceptually inaccurate, as the system delivers transient, flow-dependent pressures characteristic of open-circuit administration. Evidence is synthesized to quantify the relative contributions of nasopharyngeal dead-space clearance versus emergent pressure generation. Unlike CPAP, HFNC produces pressures ranging from 0.2 to 13.5 cmH₂O, determined by airway geometry, leak magnitude, and mouth position. Fluid dynamic modeling using Bernoulli and Darcy–Weisbach equations demonstrates oscillatory rather than sustained pressures, with magnitudes linked to nasopharyngeal Reynolds numbers (2400–6000) and turbulent energy dissipation (30–60%). Clinical efficacy persists despite variable pressures, reflecting synergistic mechanisms: inspiratory flow matching (40–50% reduction in work of breathing), dead-space clearance (CO₂ reduction, r = −0.77, p < 0.05), emergent pressure effects (10–20%), and thermal humidification (10–20%). Electrical impedance tomography reveals heterogeneous alveolar recruitment, with high-potential (54%) and low-potential (46%) phenotypes. Based on these mechanistic insights, this review proposes the term “emergent hydrodynamic pressure” to accurately describe HFNC’s transient, flow-dependent pressures. This terminology differentiates HFNC from conventional positive pressure systems and aligns language with the principles of fluid dynamics and respiratory physiology. Full article

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Adv. Respir. Med., Volume 94, Issue 1 (February 2026) – 13 articles

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