Key messages
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Diagnosed cardiac comorbidities are common patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and are associated with worse outlook. Prevalence might be underestimated because of underdiagnosis.
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COPD exacerbations are often complicated by acute cardiac dysfunction, which can be difficult to recognise clinically.
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Biochemical evidence of myocardial stretch (B-type natriuretic peptides) and myocardial injury (troponins) is often noted in exacerbations of COPD and is associated with increased mortality.
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Results of observational studies suggest that cardiac treatments could improve outcomes from COPD exacerbations, but no prospective controlled trials have been done.
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Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of acute cardiac dysfunction in COPD exacerbations is urgently needed.