Management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, affecting approximately 10% of all adults. Several articles published during the past year contributed significantly to our understanding of the complicated management of this disease. New information concerning bronchodilators, antibiotic therapy, mechanical ventilation, pulmonary rehabilitation, nutrition, and lung transplantation will help physicians further refine the care delivered to these patients.