During a pulmonary function study, it was found that your patient has a sawtooth pattern on his flow-volume loop. What is this finding associated with?
A) Central sleep apnea
B)COPD
C)Obstructive sleep apnea
D)Laryngeal edema (epiglottitis)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A sawtooth pattern on a flow-volume loop is a classic finding associated with obstructive sleep apnea. This pattern occurs because of the repeated episodes of partial or complete upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to fluctuations in airflow, resulting in the sawtooth pattern on the flow-volume loop. Central sleep apnea does not typically cause a sawtooth pattern, while COPD and laryngeal edema would usually produce different patterns on the flow-volume loop.

During a Pulmonary Function Study, It Was Found That Your