Infectious or non-infectious exacerbations are of high clinical relevance for patients suffering from chronic lung diseases and health care systems. Yet, they often go unrecognized and underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. We will focus on shared and distinct exacerbation mechanisms with an emphasis on identifying clinically useful tools for early diagnosis, individualized treatment options and prevention strategies. Munich´s vibrating scientific and cultural environment will once again provide an excellent framework for the valuable experience of collaboration and scientific exchange reaching out to junior investigators and leading scientists in the field of pulmonary medicine. In order to foster interaction and knowledge gain in the field, we are pleased to host an exceptional group of internationally renowned experts on the topic of chronic lung disease exacerbation, who build the framework of this year’s MLC scientific program. Additionally, we will feature oral presentations and poster sessions of submitted abstracts at the MLC 2018.