Question

In restrictive lung conditions, the PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) characteristics typically include:

A) Decreased lung volumes (e.g., total lung capacity, vital capacity)
B) Normal or increased FEV1/FVC (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second/Forced Vital Capacity) ratio
C) Decreased diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO)
D) Normal or increased peak expiratory flow rate

Answer 1

In restrictive lung conditions, PFTs typically show decreased lung volumes, a normal or increased FEV1/FVC ratio, and a decreased DLCO, which help distinguish them from obstructive pulmonary diseases.

Step-by-step explanation:

In restrictive lung conditions, the characteristic findings on Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) usually include:

• A) Decreased lung volumes (e.g., total lung capacity, vital capacity), since the condition often results from a reduced expansion of the lung parenchyma or chest wall.
• B) Normal or increased FEV1/FVC ratio, because both FEV1 and FVC are proportionally reduced, but the reduction in FVC is typically greater.
• C) Decreased diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), as this measurement reflects the lungs' ability to transfer gas from air to blood, often impaired in restrictive diseases.
• D) Normal or increased peak expiratory flow rate is not typically a feature of restrictive lung diseases; rather it is often seen in obstructive lung diseases.

These findings help differentiate restrictive lung conditions from obstructive pulmonary diseases, where the FEV1/FVC ratio is usually decreased.