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GOLD criteria for COPD airflow limitation severity

Spirometric grade of airflow limitation in COPD.

GOLD criteria for COPD airflow limitation severity
Post-bronchodilator FEV1 (% predicted)
%
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When to use

  • Grading the severity of airflow limitation in a patient with spirometrically confirmed COPD.

Formula

With FEV1/FVC <0.70: GOLD 1 FEV1 >=80% predicted, GOLD 2 50-79%, GOLD 3 30-49%, GOLD 4 <30%.

Pearls and pitfalls

  • The spirometric grade is only one axis; the full GOLD assessment also incorporates symptoms (mMRC/CAT) and exacerbation history (groups A-E).
  • Airflow obstruction must first be confirmed by a post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC <0.70.

References

  1. Vestbo J, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2013;187(4):347-65.