COPD - what has changed in GOLD 2023 and is relevant for clinical practice?

The annual report of the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) is one of the most relevant documents covering prevention, diagnosis and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The 2023 edition contains a number of changes with impact on clinical practice. For assessment and categorization, a new patient group termed E based on individual exacerbation history has been introduced. The basis of pharmacological management for most patients is the use of combinations containing a long acting beta 2-agonist (LABA) and a long-acting anticholinergic (LAMA). Combinations of LABA and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are no longer recommended. When there is an indication for ICS therapy, a combination of LABA, LAMA and ICS should be used. For these triple combinations, a significant reduction of mortality could be demonstrated in selected patient populations. GOLD proposes a new definition and assessment of COPD exacerbations focussing on objectively assessible parameters and relevant differential diagnoses.