Question

A 71-year-old ex-smoker with COPD presents with increased dyspnoea, purulent sputum, and raised CRP. When are antibiotics indicated in acute COPD exacerbation?

Accepted Answer

If sputum purulence and increased volume or dyspnoea

Answer

Never, COPD is viral

Answer

Only if CRP >100 mg/L

Answer

If increased dyspnoea alone

Answer

Only if fever is present

Practice question

A 71-year-old ex-smoker with COPD presents with increased dyspnoea, purulent sputum, and raised CRP. When are antibiotics indicated in acute COPD exacerbation?