[Bronchial obstruction in the aged--symptom or diagnosis? (author's transl)].

Airflow obstruction is not a clinical entity. The presence of obstruction has to be documented, at least by a timed forced vital capacity. Consequently, information must be sought about the quality and severness of the functional disturbance (pathogenesis, reversibility by medication, follow-ups). Because of the great number of possible irritants and responses, the differentiation of bronchial and extrabronchial obstruction is of great importance for the elderly patient (bronchitis plus emphysema?). The impact of other disorders on the bronchi is being discussed (e.g. pulmonary embolism, left heart failure). These considerations should be part of the routine before therapy is being initiated.