Question

The condition influenza is caused by a virus that infects the epithelium of the respiratory tract. The virus can cause severe inflammation of the airways, death of the epithelial cells, and excess secretion of mucus. Is influenza likely to show an obstructive disease pattern or a restrictive disease pattern? Predict the values you would expect to see spirometry for a patient with influenza

Answer 1

Haemophilus influenzae is the virus responsible for the causing influenza. Since it cause severe inflammation of the airways, death of the epithelial cells, and excess secretion of mucus, it would most likely show an obstructive disease pattern.

Obstructive Lung diseases are characterized by inflammation and swelling narrow the airways as well as excess mucus lodged in the airways.

The following values are indicative for a patient with obstructive lung disease:
FEV1 stands for Forced expiratory volume and FVC for forced vital capacity

• FEV₁/FVC ratio < 0.7 (or 70%)
• FEV₁ < 80% predicted
• FEF 25-75% < 60%predicted.