Over 60% of patients with COPD are treated with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), even though their use is still subject to debate. The inflammatory process in the lungs of patients with COPD is dominated by macrophages, CD8+ T-lymphocytes, neutrophilic granulocytes and mast cells, as well as an increased production and/or concentration of IL-8, TNF-alpha and leucotrine B4. This inflammatory process is less sensitive to the effect of corticosteroids than that in asthma. Placebo-controlled clinical studies show a beneficial effect of ICS on the number and severity of exacerbations, symptoms and quality of life, but not on the accelerated decline in lung function. Exacerbations occurred in a subgroup of patients in whom ICS were discontinued. A trial treatment with ICS should be considered in all COPD patients who have previously exhibited signs of asthma or allergy, or who have marked bronchial hyperresponsiveness, considerable reversibility, and recurrent exacerbations. In patients with moderate and severe COPD, a one-year trial with ICS should be considered, with exacerbations and symptoms as primary efficacy parameters and lung function decline as a secondary parameter. The combined use of ICS and long-acting beta-2 agonists may be considered in view of an additional effect on these parameters compared to administering the individual components.

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