Clinically relevant change in airway wall thickness to identify disease activity in COPD and smokers at risk

European Respiratory Journal 2026 Open access

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Authors: Mustafa Abdo, Martin Reck, Susanne Stiebeler, Benjamin‐Alexander Bollmann, Sabine Bohnet, Katharina May, Sabine Dettmer, Henrik Watz, Jens Vogel-Claussen, on behalf of the HANSE Trial Group
DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00306-2026
Cited by: 2
References: 16

Abstract

Extract Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterised by heterogeneous airway inflammation and a variable clinical course [1]. Active airway inflammation can drive progressive structural and functional damage [1]. The concept of disease activity has therefore emerged as a framework to monitor disease progression and stability and to define attainable therapy targets [2]. However, quantifiable markers of disease activity beyond symptom burden, exacerbations, or lung function decline remain limited, particularly CT biomarkers of structural airway changes that are applicable across the full spectrum of smoking-related airway disease, including smokers at risk.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Research Inhalation and Respiratory Drug Delivery Indoor Air Quality and Microbial Exposure

Publication details

Journal / source
European Respiratory Journal
Publisher
European Respiratory Society (ERS)
Volume
67
Issue
6
Pages
2600306–2600306
Publication date
26 March 2026
Language
EN