Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients frequently suffer from multiple comorbidities, resulting in poor outcomes for these patients. Diabetes is observed at a higher frequency in COPD patients than in the general population. Both type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus are associated with pulmonary complications, and similar therapeutic strategies are proposed to treat these conditions. Epidemiological studies and disease models have increased our knowledge of these clinical associations. Several recent genome-wide association studies have identified positive genetic correlations between lung function and obesity, possibly due to alterations in genes linked to cell proliferation; embryo, skeletal, and tissue development; and regulation of gene expression. These studies suggest that genetic predisposition, in addition to weight gain, can influence lung function. Cigarette smoke exposure can also influence the differential methylation of CpG sites in genes linked to diabetes and COPD, and smoke-related single nucleotide polymorphisms are associated with resting heart rate and coronary artery disease. Despite the vast literature on clinical disease association, little direct mechanistic evidence is currently available demonstrating that either disease influences the progression of the other, but common pharmacological approaches could slow the progression of these diseases. Here, we review the clinical and scientific literature to discuss whether mechanisms beyond preexisting conditions, lifestyle, and weight gain contribute to the development of COPD associated with diabetes. Specifically, we outline environmental and genetic confounders linked with these diseases.

Vascular Closure Devices (VCD) are routinely used in cardiac catheterization and other endovascular procedures in order to achieve immediate post-procedural hemostasis and sealing of the femoral artery puncture site. Unlike manual compression, VCD encompass a broad range of devices, with varying mechanisms, that offer the advantage of achieving rapid hemostasis, increased patient comfort and mobility, decreased reliance on hospital staff resources, and facilitate earlier hospital discharge. Complications of VCD have been well-described and include embolization, arterial occlusion, infection, or vascular obstruction. Here, we describe a case in which the Angio-Seal device was utilized during an elective cardiac catheterization resulted in acute lower extremity ischemia.