Susan P. ,a 60-year-old woman with a 30 pack year history,presents to your primary care practice for evaluation of a persistent,daily cough with increased sputum production,worse in the morning,occurring over the past three months.She tells you,"I have the same thing,year after year." Which of the following choices would you consider strongly in your critical thinking process?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's history of smoking (30 pack year history) and persistent cough with sputum production for three months strongly suggest chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While seasonal allergies, acute bronchitis, and bronchial asthma may also cause cough and respiratory symptoms, the chronicity of the patient's symptoms and smoking history make chronic bronchitis the most likely diagnosis.

Susan P ,A 60-Year-Old Woman with a 30 Pack Year History,presents