Bronchopneumopathie chronique obstructive : Quelle place pour les soins palliatifs ?

Abstract

COPD is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. It is associated with a progressive deterioration of respiratory capacity, often punctuated by acute exacerbations that might lead to death. While COPD is a chronic disease that may have substantial physical and psychological repercussions, most patients do not have access to appropriate palliative care. This is partly due to uncertainty in predicting life prognosis and to inadequate communication between patients and caregivers on the one hand and between specialists on the other hand. It is essential that physicians recognize depression and anxiety which affect many COPD patients. Close collaboration between GP's, pneumonologists, and palliative care teams should allow a better approach to patients' needs, and better discussion of therapeutic and palliative possibilities. In addition, advance care planning could help the patient to better understand his future and lead to improved communication between patients and caregivers.