Which of the following explains the lack of response to bronchodilators by some patients with severe emphysema?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Partial airway obstruction caused by bronchospasm is generally reversed by bronchodilator drugs; thus the associated increase in FRC is reversible. Increased FRC caused by a permanent loss of elastic recoil is not reversible. In severe emphysema, this loss of lung elasticity is associated with passive airway compression and collapse during expiration, causing air trapping. Bronchodilator drugs are not useful in these circumstances.

Which of the Following Explains the Lack of Response to Bronchodilators