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Pulmonary rehabilitation of asthma and COPD patients can improve their physical performance and quality of life, maintain participation in social and professional life and actively promote self-help. In addition, the resources for acute medical treatment can be spared. In case of COPD, rehabilitation directly after exacerbation can also improve the poor survival prognosis and reduce the risk of emergency hospital readmission. Therefore, pulmonary rehabilitation is an essential component of evidence-based long-term management of both bronchial asthma and, in particular, COPD. In the German healthcare system, however, pneumological rehabilitation is offered only for a small fraction of patients. Despite a very good evidence of pulmonary rehabilitation, especially in COPD patients, their share in all rehabilitation services is remarkably low. It does not even amount to 3 % of all medical rehabilitation measures approved by the German Pension Insurance.

BackgroundEvidence suggests that patients with COPD struggle to maintain improved physical activity (PA) after completing pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). Smartphone applications (apps) providing a comprehensive training programme have conferred healthy benefits. This study was conducted to determine whether regular usage of an app maintains PA following PR.MethodsPatients with stage II–IV COPD were enrolled in a 6-month trial following PR. After the screening period, participants were randomised into the Kaia COPD app group (intervention group (IG)) or the control group (CG). The primary outcome was PA (daily steps), measured using an activity tracker. Secondary outcomes included the COPD Assessment Test (CAT), the Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire (CRQ) and the 1 min Sit-to-Stand Test (STST).ResultsSixty participants completed the study. The median steps from baseline to 6 months were significantly different between the groups, in favour of the IG (−105.3, IQR −1970.1 to 2105.8, vs CG −1173.0, IQR −3813.1 to –93.8; p=0.007). CAT was significantly decreased in the IG (15.1±8.6 vs 19.7±6.4, p=0.02), whereas the CRQ subdomains for dyspnoea (4.5±1.7 vs 3.7±1.3, p=0.033) and fatigue (4.5±1.4 vs 3.5±1.3, p=0.028) improved significantly in the IG. The STST at 6 months was not significant. Sleep duration and sleep efficiency showed no significant differences between the two groups at any time.ConclusionsA comprehensive program by using the Kaia app following PR maintained PA and improved symptoms in patients with COPD at 6 months. The app might be an important accessory tool for enhanced COPD care.Trial registration numberDRKS00017275.

Introduction Clinical symptoms of Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Disease (DPLD) are dyspnoea and dry cough. On auscultation, crackles can be detected at an early stage. The aim of this study was to analyse whether the extent of abnormal breath sounds (crackles, wheezes and coughs) provides an indication of the disease severity and aetiology. Methodology In 25 patients with DPLD, an in- hospital overnight recording of physiological and abnormal breath sounds was performed with the LEOSound® monitor. The severity of pulmonary fibrosis was assessed by body plethysmography and GAP score. The perceived breathlessness was assessed by King's Brief Interstitial Lung Disease (K-Bild) questionnaire. Results In 16 out of 25 patients, all data were completed in good quality for analysis. Five patients were women (31.3%). The patients’ mean age was 65.8 ± 7.3 years, the mean BMI 28.0 ± 2.4 kg/m2. One patient met GAP I criteria, eight patients GAP II and seven patients met GAP III criteria. The findings of eight patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) were compared with those of eight patients with secondary interstitial lung disease (ILD). Both, the number of inspiratory crackles and coughs showed significant correlations with the severity of dyspnoea and ILD-pattern. Wheezing occurred in 15 patients, with a median of 25.7 wheezes/h. Discussion Overnight long-term auscultation in patients with pulmonary fibrosis proved feasible in our study. Regardless of the aetiology and disease severity, crackles were detected in the recordings of all fibrosis patients, but not cough. Wheezing occurred in 15 out of 16 patients, the significance of which for clinical practice must still remain unclear.

This guideline comprises the state of science at the time of the editorial deadline. In view of the high turnover of knowledge the guideline is designed as a living guideline. The main objective was to provide a tool for the use in primary care, being considered well suited as a first point of entry and for the provision of care. The guideline gives recommendations on the differential diagnosis of symptoms following SARS-CoV‑2 infection, on their therapeutic options, as well as for guidance and care of the patients concerned. It also offers advice concerning return to daily life and rehabilitation. Long COVID being a very variable condition, we chose an interdisciplinary approach.Die vorliegende Leitlinie S1 fasst den Stand der Kenntnis zu Long COVID zum Zeitpunkt des Redaktionsschlusses zusammen. Aufgund der starken Dynamik der Wissensentwicklung versteht sie sich als „living guideline“. Der Schwerpunkt liegt auf der praktischen Anwendbarkeit auf der Ebene der hausärztlichen Primärversorgung, die als geeignete Stelle für den Erstzutritt und für die primäre Betreuung und Behandlung verstanden wird. Die Leitlinie gibt Empfehlungen zur Differenzialdiagnostik der häufigsten Symptome, die in der Folge einer Infektion mit SARS-CoV‑2 auftreten können, zu therapeutischen Optionen, zu Patient:innenführung und -betreuung, sowie zu Wiedereingliederung in den Alltag, und die Rehabilitation. Entsprechend des Krankheitsbildes ist die Leitlinie in einem interdisziplinären Prozess entstanden und gibt Empfehlungen zu Schnittstellen und Kooperationsmöglichkeiten.

Background During exercise, dynamic hyperinflation (DH), measured by a reduction in inspiratory capacity (IC), increases exertional dyspnea and reduces functional capacity in many patients with severe COPD. Although noninvasive ventilation (NIV) during exercise can improve exercise duration, the effect on DH is unclear. Research Questions In people with COPD, resting hyperinflation, and evidence of DH during exercise, does bilevel NIV during exercise reduce DH and increase endurance time compared with exercise with no NIV, and does NIV with an individually titrated expiratory positive airway pressure (T-EPAP) reduce DH and increase exercise endurance time more than does NIV with standardized EPAP (S-EPAP) of 5 cm H2O? Study Design and Methods A randomized crossover trial in which investigators and participants were blinded between NIV interventions was performed. Participants (N = 19; FEV1 of 1.02 ± 0.24 L (39% ± 6% predicted) completed three constant work rate endurance cycle tests in random order—no NIV, NIV with S-EPAP, and NIV with T-EPAP—during exercise. Primary outcomes were isotime IC and exercise endurance time. Outcome measures from each intervention were compared at isotime and at end exercise by using a linear mixed-model analysis. Results Compared with those with no NIV, isotime IC and endurance time were greater with both NIV with S-EPAP (mean difference: 95% CI, 0.19 L [0.10-0.28]; 95% CI, 153 s [24-280], respectively) and T-EPAP (95% CI, 0.22 L [0.13-0.32]; 95% CI, 145 s [28-259], respectively). There was no difference between NIV with S-EPAP and NIV with T-EPAP. Interpretation In people with COPD and DH during exercise, NIV during exercise reduced DH and increased cycle endurance time. An S-EPAP of 5 cm H2O was adequate to obtain these benefits. Trial Registry Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry; No.: ACTRN12613000804785; URL: http://www.anzctr.org.au

Was ist neu? Pulmonale Manifestation Eine Mehrheit der COVID-19-Erkrankten leidet 6 Monate nach akuter Erkrankung an Spätfolgen. Dyspnoe gehört zu den häufigsten Symptomen und geht oft mit pathologischen Veränderungen der Lunge einher. Husten und Schlafstörungen finden sich ebenfalls häufig in der postakuten Phase. Die Abnormalitäten der Lunge und die damit verbundenen Symptome zeigen mit der Zeit enorme Verbesserungen. Schlaf bei Post-COVID Nach COVID-19-Erkrankung zeigt der Schlaf vieler Betroffener Auffälligkeiten. Insbesondere die REM-Schlafphase (REM = Rapid Eye Movement) zeigt Störungen, die zu häufigem Erwachen in der Nacht unqd zu Tagesmüdigkeit führen. Das chronische Fatigue-Syndrom (CFS), das als Folge einer viralen Infektion auftreten kann, kann sich durch die Therapie von Schlafstörungen verbessern. Belastungsspezifische Besonderheiten In der postakuten Krankheitsphase haben viele Patienten eine eingeschränkte körperliche Leistungsfähigkeit. Ursachen für eine reduzierte körperliche Belastbarkeit können Anämie, eingeschränkte Sauerstoffextraktion und myopathische Veränderungen sein. Pneumologische Rehabilitation In der Postakutphase einer COVID-19-Erkrankung ist eine pneumologische Rehabilitation machbar, sicher und effektiv und führt zu signifikanten Verbesserungen in der körperlichen Belastbarkeit und Lungenfunktion. Eine Rehabilitation kann die Langzeitfolgen einer COVID-19-Erkrankung positiv beeinflussen und scheint unabhängig vom Schweregrad wirksam zu sein. Medikamentöse Therapie: Kortikosteroide COVID-19-Erkrankte mit neu erworbener und anhaltender interstitieller Lungenerkrankung sollten keine systemischen Kortikosteroide oder Antifibrotika erhalten, da die Datenlage bisher noch keine Evidenz dafür hergibt. In Einzelfällen können Patienten jedoch von der Einnahme von Kortikosteroiden profitieren.

Obwohl das Zigarettenrauchen den grosten Risikofaktor fur die Entwicklung einer chronisch obstruktiven Lungenerkrankung (COPD) darstellt, spielen auch genetische Parameter eine wichtige Rolle. Bei angeborenem Alpha-1-Antitrypsinmangel ist das Risiko einer COPD aufgrund der reduzierten Menge an funktionsfahigem Alpha-1-Antitrypsin erhoht, das in seiner physiologischen Rolle die Lunge vor proteolytischen Enzymen und somit vor Zerstorung des Lungenparenchyms schutzt. Neben dem angeborenen Alpha-1-Antitypsin-Mangel wurden unterschiedliche Genome identifiziert, die die COPD-Suszeptibilitat masgeblich beeinflussen. Komplexe Erkrankungen wie die chronisch obstruktive Lungenerkrankung werden nicht durch einzelne genetische Varianten verursacht, sondern sind vielmehr das Ergebnis eines biologischen Konstrukts aus unterschiedlichen Genen und Proteinen. Die moglichst konkrete Bestimmung dieser genetischen Determinanten konnte neue Erkenntnisse und Ziele fur die medikamentose Therapie der COPD liefern. Seit die Kosten fur Gesamtgenomsequenzierungen gefallen sind, wird dieses umfassende Assessment auch fur die Untersuchung der genetischen Varianten der COPD verwendet, mit dem Ziel, einen Uberblick uber die genetische Architektur dieser Erkrankung zu erhalten.

ZusammenfassungDie Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pneumologie hat die AWMFS1-Leitlinie Post-COVID/Long-COVID initiiert. In einem breiten interdisziplinären Ansatz wurde diese S1-Leitlinie basierend auf dem aktuellen Wissensstand gestaltet.Die klinische Empfehlung beschreibt die aktuellen Post-COVID/Long-COVID-Symptome, diagnostische Ansätze und Therapien.Neben der allgemeinen und konsentierten Einführung wurde ein fachspezifischer Zugang gewählt, der den aktuellen Wissensstand zusammenfasst.Die Leitlinie hat einen expilzit praktischen Anspruch und wird basierend auf dem aktuellen Wissenszugewinn vom Autorenteam stetig weiterentwickelt und adaptiert.

We demonstrate a full-cycle breath gas sensor system based on terahertz/millimeter-wave gas spectroscopy. The sensor consists of a transmitter and receiver working around 250 GHz based on SiGe BiCMOS technology. Typical detection thresholds are in the ppm range depending on the respective molecule. The data analysis provides partial pressures of the investigated molecules by fitting of spectra which are measured by wavelength modulation. Beside the spectroscopic measurement and the data analysis, a full cycle of breath analysis includes the sampling and the conditioning of the sample tubes. The full cycle takes about 35 min per sample in average. As the system is compact and easy to operate, it allows for on-site analysis of breath samples in medical laboratories or hospitals.

PURPOSE Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has been shown to be an effective intervention in patients with very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) awaiting lung transplantation (LTx). The objective of this study was to characterize the prevalence of acute exacerbations (AEs) during PR and their impact on the outcomes of pre-LTx PR. METHODS In this retrospective analysis, 559 patients with COPD awaiting LTx who were referred to a 4-wk inpatient PR program were evaluated. A total of 114 patients (20%) acquired an AE during PR and continued in an adapted fashion. Pulmonary function testing, 6-min walk test (6MWT), and a health-related quality-of-life questionnaire (SF-36) were administered on admission and on discharge of PR. RESULTS Following PR, both groups, patients with and without AE, increased their 6MWT significantly (P < .001) to a clinically relevant amount (58 ± 72 and 52 ± 64 m, respectively). The sum scores of the SF-36 also improved significantly without any between-group differences. No observed changes were different between the two groups. No relevant predictors for PR outcomes could be detected by logistic regression. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that patients with end-stage COPD listed for LTx can achieve clinically relevant improvements in functional exercise capacity and quality of life even if they develop an AE during PR.

As of 10 March 2021, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in more than 0.1 billion laboratory-confirmed cases and more than 2.5 million deaths globally [1]. Both the economic impact and disease burden of COVID-19 far exceeded those of severe acute respiratory syndrome and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. The number of patients who have recovered from COVID-19 is increasing [2] despite an escalation of total number of cases worldwide., This editorial reviews the evidence supporting benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation in #COVID19 patients, as well as some unanswered research questions https://bit.ly/39JY3SU

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) is a rare genetic condition that predisposes patients to lung and liver disease and is often underdiagnosed due to incomplete diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Improvements in physician awareness have been made, but better strategies for both diagnosis and management are still required. The only current disease-modifying therapy for AATD is the infusion of the missing Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) protein, which can slow progression of emphysema. However, AAT treatment can impact patient freedom and quality of life due to the need for weekly intravenous infusions. A symposium was held to discuss patient-centric aspects of care that have impact on the lives of patients with AATD, including exacerbations of their lung disease, self-administration of intravenous AAT therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation. Intravenous self-infusion of drugs is an established treatment strategy for patients with a variety of conditions and can improve patient quality of life, freedom and mental well-being. Experience from these areas show that patients typically manage their treatment well and without complications. When applied to AATD, training patients to self-infuse therapy can be successful, but formal guidelines would be beneficial. In addition to pharmacological intervention, individualized pulmonary rehabilitation, exercise and educational programs can encourage health-enhancing patient behavior and further improve patient quality of life. However, differences in skeletal muscle adaptations to pulmonary rehabilitation exercise regimens have been observed between patients with AATD and non-AATD COPD, highlighting the need to develop training programs specifically designed for patients with AATD.

Was ist neu? Lungenfibrose Es zeigt sich eine zunehmende Evidenz bezüglich der Wirksamkeit eines pneumologischen Rehabilitationsprogramms (PR) bei anderen pneumologischen Erkrankungen als der COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Aktuelle Studien berichten über positive Effekte von strukturierten PR-Programmen bei Lungenfibrose- und Asthmapatienten. Asthma bronchiale Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass auch Patienten mit moderatem bis schwerem Asthma signifikant im Hinblick auf die Asthmakontrolle von einem PR-Programm profitieren. Telemedizin meets pneumologische Rehabilitation Bei COPD-Patienten kann ein ergänzendes „digitales Übungsprogramm“ im Vergleich zu einer alleinigen PR-Maßnahme zu größeren Benefits beitragen. COVID-19 Es gibt erste Hinweise darauf, dass an COVID-19 Erkrankte von einer PR profitieren können. Das aktuelle Positionspapier der deutschen Gesellschaft für Pneumologie und Beatmungsmedizin zum Thema Empfehlungen zur PR bei COVID-19 beschreibt, dass rehabilitative Therapien bereits auf der Normalstation bzw. Intensivstation indiziert sind und sich als pneumologische Frührehabilitation im Akutkrankenhaus und als Anschlussheilbehandlung oder Reha-Heilverfahren in PR-Kliniken fortsetzen sollten.

Purpose Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a rare hereditary condition characterized by low circulating levels of alpha-1antitrypsin (AAT). While the association between AATD and COPD/emphysema is undisputed, the association between AATD and asthma or bronchiectasis is still a matter of debate. Aims and Objectives Our study aimed to investigate the distribution of AAT genotypes between patients with COPD/emphysema, asthma and bronchiectasis. To back up the diagnostic labels, we described symptoms associated with the diagnosis. Methods Between September 2003 and March 2020, 29,465 testing kits (AlphaKit®) were analyzed in the AAT laboratory, University of Marburg, Germany. The diagnosis of AATD has been made based on the measurements of AAT serum levels, followed by genotyping, phenotyping or whole gene sequencing depending on the availability and/or the need for more detailed interpretation of the results. The respiratory symptoms were recorded as well. Results Regarding the distribution of the wild type allele M and the most frequent mutations S (E264V) and Z (E342K), no significant differences could be found between COPD/emphysema [Pi*MM (58.24%); Pi*SZ (2.49%); Pi*ZZ (9.12%)] and bronchiectasis [Pi*MM (59.30%) Pi*SZ (2.81%); Pi*ZZ (7.02%)]. When COPD/emphysema and bronchiectasis were recorded in the same patient, the rate of Pi* ZZ (14.78%) mutations was even higher. Asthma patients exhibited significantly less deficient genotypes [Pi*MM (54.81%); Pi*SZ (2%); Pi*ZZ (2.77%)] than two other groups. Associated respiratory symptoms confirmed the diagnosis. Conclusion COPD/emphysema and bronchiectasis, but not asthma patients, exhibit higher frequency of AATD genotypes. Our data suggest that AATD testing should be offered to patients with COPD/emphysema and bronchiectasis.

The German Respiratory Society (DGP) has commissioned Assembly 12 "Rehabilitation, Prevention and Tobacco Control" to develop recommendations for the implementation of pulmonary rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients. This position paper is based on the current state of knowledge, which develops daily. This position paper describes the health consequences in COVID-19 as well as the indications for pulmonary rehabilitation. Rehabilitative therapies in COVID-19 are already indicated on the ward or intensive care unit, continue as early pulmonary rehabilitation in the acute hospital and as pulmonary rehabilitation in pulmonary rehabilitation centers. The main focus of this position paper is to propose recommendations for the content-related implementation of a multimodal, interdisciplinary pulmonary rehabilitation in COVID-19 patients.Vor dem Hintergrund der Pandemie durch Infektionen mit dem SARS-CoV-2 hat die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pneumologie und Beatmungsmedizin (DGP e. V.) die Sektion 12 „Rehabilitation, Prävention und Tabakkontrolle“ beauftragt, Empfehlungen zur Umsetzung pneumologischer Rehabilitation bei Patienten nach COVID-19 zu erstellen. Dieses Positionspapier basiert auf dem momentanen aktuellen Wissen, das sich täglich weiterentwickelt. Neben einer Beschreibung der gesundheitlichen Folgen von COVID-19 wird die Indikationsstellung aufgezeigt. Rehabilitative Therapien bei COVID-19 sind bereits auf der Normalstation bzw. Intensivstation indiziert, setzen sich fort als pneumologische Frührehabilitation im Akutkrankenhaus und als Anschlussheilbehandlung oder Reha-Heilverfahren in pneumologischen Rehabilitationskliniken. Im Fokus dieses Positionspapiers stehen Empfehlungen zur inhaltlichen Durchführung einer multimodalen, interdisziplinären pneumologischen Rehabilitation bei COVID-19.

A majority of COVID patients suffers from hetereogenous symptoms after acute infection which are limiting patients participation in social life, activities of daily living and the return to work. In March 2021, the German Society of Pneumology initiated the AWMF S1 guideline Post-COVID/Long-COVID in order to show an individual practice-oriented, diagnostic and therapeutic clinical algorithm according to the individual symptoms. This article is based on the S1 guideline and highlights some trials of interest with a focus on pulmonary symptoms. The guideline and, accordingly, this article have an explicitly practical and clinical purpose. The guideline will be further developed by the author team based on the current increase in knowledge this is reflected in the clinical summary article.Eine Mehrheit der COVID-19-Erkrankten leidet 6 Monate nach akuter Erkrankung an Spätfolgen. Dyspnoe gehört zu den häufigsten Symptomen und geht oft mit pathologischen Veränderungen der Lunge einher. Husten und Schlafstörungen finden sich ebenfalls häufig in der postakuten Phase. Die Abnormalitäten der Lunge und die damit verbundenen Symptome zeigen mit der Zeit enorme Verbesserungen.Nach COVID-19-Erkrankung zeigt der Schlaf vieler Betroffener Auffälligkeiten. Insbesondere die REM-Schlafphase (REM = Rapid Eye Movement) zeigt Störungen, die zu häufigem Erwachen in der Nacht unqd zu Tagesmüdigkeit führen. Das chronische Fatigue-Syndrom (CFS), das als Folge einer viralen Infektion auftreten kann, kann sich durch die Therapie von Schlafstörungen verbessern.In der postakuten Krankheitsphase haben viele Patienten eine eingeschränkte körperliche Leistungsfähigkeit. Ursachen für eine reduzierte körperliche Belastbarkeit können Anämie, eingeschränkte Sauerstoffextraktion und myopathische Veränderungen sein.In der Postakutphase einer COVID-19-Erkrankung ist eine pneumologische Rehabilitation machbar, sicher und effektiv und führt zu signifikanten Verbesserungen in der körperlichen Belastbarkeit und Lungenfunktion. Eine Rehabilitation kann die Langzeitfolgen einer COVID-19-Erkrankung positiv beeinflussen und scheint unabhängig vom Schweregrad wirksam zu sein. MEDIKAMENTöSE THERAPIE: KORTIKOSTEROIDE: COVID-19-Erkrankte mit neu erworbener und anhaltender interstitieller Lungenerkrankung sollten keine systemischen Kortikosteroide oder Antifibrotika erhalten, da die Datenlage bisher noch keine Evidenz dafür hergibt. In Einzelfällen können Patienten jedoch von der Einnahme von Kortikosteroiden profitieren.

IntroductionBioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) can be used to estimate Fat-Free Mass Index (FFMI). However, the use of directly measured BIA variables, such as phase angle (PhA), has gained attention. The frequency of low FFMI and PhA and its associations with exercise capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) have been scarcely studied.ObjectivesTo investigate the frequency of low FFMI and PhA and their associations with exercise capacity and HRQL in patients with IPF.MethodsPatients underwent assessment of lung function, body composition, exercise capacity by the 6 min walk distance (6MWD), and HRQL by the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36-item Questionnaire (SF-36). Patients were classified as presenting normal or low PhA or FFMI, accordingly to the 10th percentiles of age-sex-body mass index (BMI)-specific reference values.Results98 patients (84 males, age: 68±8 years, forced vital capacity: 64%±18%predicted) were included. 24 patients presented low PhA. They were characterised by worse lung function, exercise capacity and HRQL compared with patients with normal PhA. 10 patients presented low FFMI, but despite differences in body composition, no differences were found between these patients and patients with normal FFMI. In a single regression analysis, age, lung function and body composition variables (except FFMI) were related to 6MWD and SF-36 Physical Summary Score (R²=0.06–0.36, pConclusionOne-fourth of the patients with IPF with normal to obese BMI present abnormally low PhA. Patients classified as low PhA presented worse lung function, exercise capacity and HRQL.

The German Society of Pneumology initiated the AWMFS1 guideline Post-COVID/Long-COVID. In a broad interdisciplinary approach, this S1 guideline was designed based on the current state of knowledge.The clinical recommendation describes current post-COVID/long-COVID symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and therapies.In addition to the general and consensus introduction, a subject-specific approach was taken to summarize the current state of knowledge.The guideline has an expilcit practical claim and will be continuously developed and adapted by the author team based on the current increase in knowledge.Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pneumologie hat die AWMFS1-Leitlinie Post-COVID/Long-COVID initiiert. In einem breiten interdisziplinären Ansatz wurde diese S1-Leitlinie basierend auf dem aktuellen Wissensstand gestaltet.Die klinische Empfehlung beschreibt die aktuellen Post-COVID/Long-COVID-Symptome, diagnostische Ansätze und Therapien.Neben der allgemeinen und konsentierten Einführung wurde ein fachspezifischer Zugang gewählt, der den aktuellen Wissensstand zusammenfasst.Die Leitlinie hat einen expilzit praktischen Anspruch und wird basierend auf dem aktuellen Wissenszugewinn vom Autorenteam stetig weiterentwickelt und adaptiert.

Patients with COPD often have reduced physical activity, which can impair health status. Real-world data can provide valuable information on the health and functional status of patients with COPD treated with tiotropium/olodaterol. AERIAL® (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03165045) was a German, non-interventional study of patients with COPD receiving treatment with tiotropium/olodaterol under real-world conditions for ∼6 weeks. The primary end-point was the proportion of patients achieving a decrease of ≥0.4 points in Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) score. The CCQ-4 subdomain was used to assess functional status, and the Physician's Global Evaluation (PGE) scale was used to assess the patients’ general condition. Safety was assessed, as well as patient satisfaction and willingness to continue treatment. Out of 1351 screened patients, 1322 were treated and 1140 comprised the full analysis set. The primary end-point was met: 66.3% of patients achieved a ≥0.4-point decrease in overall CCQ score (mean±sd decrease 0.78±0.95). Mean±sd decreases in CCQ symptoms and functional state subdomains were 0.84±1.06 and 0.75±1.05 points, respectively. PGE scores improved. One fatality (not treatment-related) and 23 drug-related adverse events were recorded, most commonly nausea and vertigo. >85% of patients were satisfied/very satisfied with tiotropium/olodaterol overall and with the Respimat® device, both in terms of inhalation and handling. Most patients (95.2%) expressed willingness to continue treatment. Patients with COPD treated with tiotropium/olodaterol via Respimat® in routine clinical practice had clinically relevant improvements in health and functional status compared with baseline., The AERIAL non-interventional study demonstrated that patients with COPD treated with tiotropium/olodaterol via Respimat in routine clinical practice had high product satisfaction and clinically relevant improvements in health and functional status https://bit.ly/3jf6hIf

We present a comparison between THz spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), which is considered the gold-standard for sensitive breath detection. For this purpose, we analyzed human breath samples with both methods and discuss key figures as well as advantages and disadvantages for this application. As an example, the detection of isopropanol is presented which was exhaled after hand disinfection of a volunteer. THz spectroscopy provides results consistent with GC-MS and even distinguishes conformers of isopropanol. The sensitivity of the THz spectrometer for isopropanol is roughly 500 times smaller in this case, but can be improved depending on the species and measurement parameters.

Background:\ud Cognitive impairment might interfere with the efficacy of Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). We aimed to identify differential responses to PR between cognitively impaired (CI) and cognitively normal (CN) COPD patients by assessing health status and exercise capacity.\ud \ud Methods:\ud Sixty patients (FEV1: 47 ± 15%) were classified as CI or CN according to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA ≤25points) and completed a 3-week inpatient PR program. Cognitive function (neuropsychological battery), health-status (36-Item Short Form Survey [SF-36]), and exercise capacity (6-min walk test [6MWT], cycle-endurance test [CET]) were assessed before and after PR. Responsiveness to PR was estimated by mean change (delta-value [Δ]) and the d-Effect Size (ES).\ud \ud Results:\ud Twenty-five COPD patients (42%) presented evidence of mild CI prior to PR. Both, CI and CN patients significantly improved global cognitive function, health status (the majority of SF-36 components), and exercise capacity (6MWT and cycle endurance) in response to PR. Compared to CN, CI patients did not improve SF-36 subdomains of “role emotional” and “bodily pain”, and demonstrated a lower magnitude of improvement in 6MWT ([Δ]: 25 m; ES: 0.21) compared to CN ([Δ]: 46 m; ES: 0.54).\ud \ud Conclusions:\ud PR has favorable effects on global cognitive function, health status, and exercise capacity in both CI and CN COPD patients. There was no concrete evidence to indicate interference of cognitive impairment to PR effectiveness.

Zu Beginn des 21. Jahrhunderts wurden erstmals mehr Daten digital als analog gespeichert. Kommunikation, Wissensaustausch und Zugang zu Informationen haben sich in den letzten Jahren masgeblich geandert. Digitale Zugangswege pragen den Alltag. Auch in der Intensivmedizin sind der digitale Zugang und digitale Plattformen unabdingbare Voraussetzungen, um Medizin ausuben zu konnen. Die digitale Bildverarbeitung sei als Beispiel angefuhrt. Durch telemedizinische Plattformen konnen Krankenhauser der Grund- und Regelversorgung an Krankenhauser der Maximalversorgung angeschlossen werden und so qualifizierte Medizin mit Unterstutzung von hochausgebildeten Spezialisten angeboten werden. Diese Projekte werden aktuell durch wissenschaftliche Forderung vorangebracht und konnen die technologische Weiterentwicklung und flachendeckende Versorgung mit hoch spezialisierter medizinischer Versorgung unterstutzen. Vor dem Hintergrund des Fachkraftemangels, der Uberalterung der Bevolkerung und dem nicht aufzuhaltenden technischen Fortschritt ist es unabdingbar, dass medizinische Experten die technische Zukunft mitgestalten.

Zusammenfassung. Die pneumologische Rehabilitation (PR) ist ein wirksames Verfahren der nicht-medikamentösen Therapie bei chronischen Erkrankungen der Lunge und der Atemwege. Die meisten validen Daten gibt es zur COPD. Allerdings ist der Effekt der PR nach sechs bis zwölf Monaten nicht mehr nachweisbar, es sei denn der Patient nimmt im Anschluss an eine PR an einem Erhaltungsprogramm teil. Wie ein solches Erhaltungsprogramm in Bezug auf Ort, Länge, Intensität und Inhalte aussehen soll, ist Gegenstand aktueller Forschung. Deshalb sind konkrete Empfehlungen noch nicht verfügbar und weitere Studienresultate bleiben abzuwarten. In dieser Arbeit soll ein Überblick über die vorhandenen Ergebnisse gegeben werden.

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Pulmonale Hypertonie (PH) ist definiert als ein Anstieg des mittleren pulmonal-arteriellen Drucks auf > 20 mmHg in Ruhe, der auf Dauer zu einer Rechtsherzinsuffizienz führen kann. Bis vor einigen Jahren wurde PH-Patienten wegen der Befürchtung einer möglichen Symptomverschlechterung und dem Auftreten unerwünschter, belastungsassoziierter klinischer Ereignisse von körperlichem Training abgeraten. Methoden Drei elektronische Datenbanken wurden mit folgenden Suchbegriffen nach randomisiert, kontrollierten Studien durchsucht, in denen eine Trainingsintervention bei PH-Patienten untersucht wurde: „pulmonary hypertension ODER „pulmonary arterial hypertension“ UND „exercise“ ODER „pulmonary rehabilitation“ UND „randomized“. Ergebnisse In dieser Metaanalyse konnten Daten von 5 Studien mit insgesamt 187 PH-Patienten eingeschlossen werden, welche 3- bis 12-wöchige Trainingsprogramme (z. B. 10 – 45 Minuten Ergometertraining; 60 – 80 % der maximalen Herzfrequenz) absolvierten. Patienten in den Trainingsgruppen wiesen im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe signifikante (p Schlussfolgerung Ein individuell angepasstes Trainingsprogramm bei stabilen PH-Patienten kann nach zuvor optimierter medikamentöser Therapie die körperliche Belastbarkeit und Lebensqualität ohne nachweisbare klinische Gefährdung verbessern. Diese Einschätzungen basieren bisher nur auf kleinen Fallzahlen und größere, randomisierte Studien mit unterschiedlichen PH-Schweregraden sind dringend notwendig.

Background Supplemental oxygen is a recommended therapy option in stable hypoxemic COPD patients. Often, supplemental oxygen is provided by continuous flow (CF). However, demand oxygen delivery systems (DODS) that provide an oxygen bolus only during inspiration have gained increasing use as they prolong oxygen cylinder life (beside battery life). However, there is a lack of evidence if different DODS and CF devices are equivalent. Methods Seventy hypoxemic COPD patients (FEV1 32 ± 9% predicted, PaO2 56±7 mmHg) on long-term oxygen therapy were included in this prospective single-blinded, randomized cross-over trial. Following an initial incremental shuttle walk test, patients performed 3 endurance shuttle walk tests (ESWT) at 85% of their maximum walking speed in random order with: (A) CF (ESWT-CF), (B) a DODS based on liquid oxygen (ESWT-DL) and (C) an DODS oxygen concentrator (ESWT-DC). The primary outcome was oxygen saturation (SpO2) at ESWT isotime. Secondary outcomes were total ESWT duration, heart rate (HR) and breathing frequency (BF) at isotime and dyspnea at end-exercise. Results SpO2 at ESWT isotime was not clinically different between devices: 90 ± 4% (CF), 89 ± 5% (DL) and 90 ± 5% (DC). However, 20% of the patients showed a ≥4% lower oxygen desaturation while using a DODS device. Secondary outcomes were similar under the three conditions. Conclusion Oxygen supplementation via DODS (based on liquid oxygen or as a concentrator) yielded comparable physiological effects during standardized walking in stable hypoxemic COPD patients like CF. However, 20% of patients showed a clinically relevant lower oxygen saturation while using a DODS device. Therefore, we suggest individual testing of oxygen saturation of DODS suitability.

Background: Histologic chorioamnionitis is only diagnosed postnatally which prevents interventions. We hypothesized that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the amniotic fluid might be useful biomarkers for chorioamnionitis and that VOC profiles differ between amnionitis of different origins.Methods: Time-mated ewes received intra-amniotic injections of media or saline (controls), or live Ureaplasma parvum serovar 3 (Up) 14, 7 or 3d prior to c-section at day 124 gestational age (GA). 100 μg recombinant ovine IL-1α was instilled at 7, 3 or 1d prior to delivery. Headspace VOC profiles were measured from amniotic fluids at birth using ion mobility spectrometer coupled with multi-capillary columns.Results: 127 VOC peaks were identified. 27 VOCs differed between samples from controls and Up- or IL-1α induced amnionitis. The best discrimination between amnionitis by Up vs. IL-1α was reached by 2-methylpentane, with a sensitivity/specificity of 96/95% and a positive predictive value/negative predictive values of 96 and 95%. The concentration of 2-methylpentane in VOCs peaked 7d after intra-amniotic instillation of Up.Discussion: We established a novel method to study headspace VOC profiles of amniotic fluids. VOC profiles may be a useful tool to detect and to assess the duration of amnionitis induced by Up. 2-methylpentane was previously described in the exhalate of women with pre-eclampsia and might be a volatile biomarker for amnionitis. Amniotic fluids analyzed by ion mobility spectrometry coupled with multi-capillary columns may provide bedside diagnosis of amnionitis and understanding inflammatory mechanisms during pregnancy.

Purpose: To evaluate the value of CEUS in differentiating malignant from benign pleural effusions (PEs). Methods: From 2008 to 2017, 83 patients with PEs of unknown cause were examined using B-mode thoracic ultrasound (B-TUS), CEUS, and cytological examination. The extent of enhancement of the pleural thickening, the presence of enhancement of septa or a solid mass within the PE, and the homogeneity of the enhancement in the associated lung consolidation, were examined. Subsequently, the diagnostic value of cytology, B-TUS, and CEUS in differentiating malignant from benign PEs was determined. Results: With CEUS, markedly enhanced pleural thickening and inhomogeneous enhanced lung consolidation were significantly more frequently associated with malignancy (p < 0.05). In the subgroup analysis, the use of CEUS increased the sensitivity from 69.2 to 92.3 in patients with initial negative cytology but clinical suspicion of malignant PE; it also increased the specificity from 63.0 to 90.0, the positive predictive value from 69.2 to 92.3, the negative predictive value from 63.0 to 90.0, and the diagnostic accuracy from 66.7 to 87.5, in the evaluation of PE malignancy. Conclusion: The use of clinically based B-TUS and CEUS as a complementary method to cytological evaluation may be beneficial for evaluating a PE of unknown cause. CEUS patterns of enhanced pleural thickening and inhomogeneous enhanced lung consolidation may suggest a malignant PE.