Peripheral muscle dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often develop systemic complications of their disease, including skeletal muscle dysfunction. Peripheral muscle dysfunction in COPD is characterized by atrophy, weakness, and low oxidative capacity. These muscle changes influence exercise tolerance and quality of life independently of the impairment in lung function. In this article, the evidence for peripheral muscle dysfunction in patients with COPD and the possible clinical implications of this problem are discussed. The available therapeutic options to improve peripheral muscle function in COPD are reviewed.