GOLD Staging System for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD) Severity
Definition
COPD is a disease state characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The airflow limitation is usually both progressive and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases.
GOLD Staging System for COPD Severity
|
Stage |
Description |
Findings (based on postbronchodilator FEV1) |
|
0 |
At risk |
Risk factors and chronic symptoms but normal spirometry |
|
I |
Mild |
FEV1/FVC ratio less than 70 percent FEV1 at least 80 percent of predicted value May have symptoms |
|
II |
Moderate |
FEV1/FVC ratio less than 70 percent FEV1 50 percent to less than 80 percent of predicted value May have chronic symptoms |
|
III |
Severe |
FEV1/FVC ratio less than 70 percent FEV1 30 percent to less than 50 percent of predicted value May have chronic symptoms |
|
IV |
Very severe |
FEV1/FVC ratio less than 70 percent FEV1 less than 30 percent of predicted value or FEV1 less than 50 percent of predicted value plus severe chronic symptoms |
GOLD = Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease; COPD = chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; FEV1 = forced expiratory volume in one second; FVC = forced vital capacity.
References:
-
Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. Global strategy for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Updated 2005. Accessed online April 01, 2006. [Summary]
-
Dewar M, Curry RW Jr. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: diagnostic considerations. Am Fam Physician. 2006 Feb 15;73(4):669-76. [Medline]
-
Pierson DJ. Clinical practice guidelines for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a review and comparison of current resources. Respir Care. 2006 Mar;51(3):277-88. [Medline]
Created: April 01, 2006
Last Modified:
04/01/2006