Box 1.

Factors to consider when starting inhaled corticosteroids in chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder

Use strongly supported

  • History of hospitalisation with ≥2 moderate exacerbations per year

  • Blood eosinophils 300 cells/μL

Consider use

  • One moderate exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder per year

  • Blood eosinophils 100–300 cells/μL

Use not advised

  • Repeated pneumonias

  • Blood eosinophils <100 cells/μL

  • History of mycobacterial infection