The diagnostic accuracies of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in general practice: the results of the MAGIC (Manchester Airways Group Identifying COPD) study

This study found a considerable under-recording of COPD in two general practices. This may be due to a combination of administrative and diagnostic problems (including the under-use of spirometers), and a reluctance of patients to present with their symptoms. These results have important implications in terms of unmet need and resource utilisation.