A patient is seen in the clinic with COPD.Which information given by the patient would help most in confirming a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chronic bronchitis is defined as a productive cough that lasts for at least 3 months in each of 2 consecutive years in a patient who has no other explanation for the cough. Therefore, the patient's complaint of having a productive cough all winter for the past 2 years is the best information to confirm a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis. A family history of bronchitis, denial of respiratory problems until the last 6 months, and a 40-pack-year cigarette history may contribute to the development of COPD, but do not confirm a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis on their own.

A Patient Is Seen in the Clinic with COPD