Home Oxygen Therapy for Adults with Chronic Lung Disease

Publication Date: August 30, 2020
Last Updated: January 19, 2024

Recommendations

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

In adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who have severe chronic resting room air hypoxemia,* we recommend prescribing long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) for at least 15 h/d. (S, M)
*Severe hypoxemia is defined as meeting either of the following criteria: 1) PaO2 ≤ 55 mm Hg (7.3 kPa) or oxygen saturation as measured by pulse oximetry (SpO2) ≤ 88%; 2) PaO2 = 56–59 mm Hg (7.5–7.9 kPa) or SpO2 = 89% plus one of the following: edema, hematocrit ≥ 55%, or P pulmonale on an ECG.
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In adults with COPD who have moderate chronic resting room air hypoxemia,* we suggest not prescribing LTOT. (C, L)
*Moderate hypoxemia is defined as an SpO2 of 89–93%.
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In adults with COPD who have severe exertional room air hypoxemia, we suggest prescribing ambulatory oxygen. (C, M)
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Overview

Title

Home Oxygen Therapy for Adults with Chronic Lung Disease

Authoring Organization

American Thoracic Society