Question

A subject whose FEV1 is 1.1 L has the following results of an exercise test (values in parentheses are percents of predicted)

O2 max L/min (STPD) 1.77 (51) HRmax beats/min 117 (73) E max L/min (BTPS) 37
Which best describes these results?
a) Normal exercise capacity
b) Mildly reduced exercise capacity
c) Moderately reduced exercise capacity
d) Severely reduced exercise capacity

Answer 1

The subject's low oxygen consumption, heart rate, and ventilation during an exercise test indicate a moderately reduced exercise capacity, option (c).

Step-by-step explanation:

To best describe the exercise capacity of a subject with an FEV1 of 1.1 L, we have to consider their oxygen consumption (O2 max), heart rate (HRmax), and ventilation during maximal exercise (E max).

The subject's O2 max is 1.77 L/min, which is 51% of the predicted value, their HRmax is 117 beats/min, corresponding to 73% of the predicted maximum, and their ventilation (E max) is 37 L/min (BTPS).

Given that these values are well below the expected levels for a healthy individual during exercise, it suggests that the subject has a reduced exercise capacity.

Considering the information, we can conclude that the subject has more than a mild reduction in exercise capacity without necessarily being classified as severe.

Therefore, the best response is (c) Moderately reduced exercise capacity.