A 57-year-old man is being assessed for chronic shortness of breath. His respiratory flow-volume curve is shown below in red. Which of the following pathologic findings is most likely to be present in this patient?

Question

A 57-year-old man is being assessed for chronic shortness of breath. His respiratory flow-volume curve is shown below in red.  Which of the following pathologic findings is most likely to be present in this patient?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: The flow-volume loop in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is distinguished by increased residual volume and total lung capacity, as well as a "scooped-out" expiratory pattern caused by lower expiratory flow rates. Hyperinflation and airflow limitation are caused by both airway narrowing caused by chronic bronchitis and decreased elasticity caused by emphysematous destruction of interalveolar walls.

A 57-Year-Old Man Is Being Assessed for Chronic Shortness of Breath