Remarkable improvement in a very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder patient after use of noninvasive intermittent positive pressure ventilator: A case report

RATIONAL: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) impairs lung function and induces systemic effects, resulting in impaired quality of life. Skeletal muscle dysfunction—characteristic of advanced COPD patients—limits a patient's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL). In addition, dysphagia is commonly observed in COPD patients. PATIENT CONCERN: This case report documents a 42-year-old man with very severe COPD. He experienced aggravation of the symptoms during standard medical treatment and his ability to perform the ADL was significantly impaired. Furthermore, his dysphagia worsened despite oromotor training. DIAGNOSIS: He was diagnosed as very severe COPD have a problem with swallowing and respiratory function. INTERVENTION: Upon NIPPV treatment, the patient's ability to perform the ADL, as well as his dysphagia, showed improvement. OUTCOMES: Thus, we report the remarkable improvement of physical function, as well as dysphagia, in a very severe COPD patient after NIPPV treatment. LESSONS: NIPPV may be useful as a treatment option for such patients.