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Pulmonary Function Testing & Interpretation Flashcards

7 cards from real CRE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What is the FEV1/FVC ratio threshold used by GOLD guidelines to diagnose airflow obstruction in adults?

    Answer: Less than 0.70

    A post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio below 0.70 confirms the presence of persistent airflow obstruction per GOLD guidelines.

  2. A patient's spirometry shows a reduced FEV1/FVC ratio with normal or elevated TLC. This pattern is most consistent with which type of lung disease?

    Answer: Obstructive lung disease

    Obstructive lung disease is characterized by a reduced FEV1/FVC ratio; TLC is normal or elevated due to air trapping and hyperinflation.

  3. Which spirometry measurement represents the volume of air forcefully exhaled during the first second of a maximal forced expiratory maneuver?

    Answer: FEV1

    FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second) is the volume exhaled in the first second of a forced vital capacity maneuver and is the primary indicator of airflow obstruction.

  4. The diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is reduced in which of the following conditions?

    Answer: Emphysema

    Emphysema destroys alveolar walls and capillary beds, reducing the surface area available for gas exchange, which significantly lowers DLCO.

  5. In restrictive lung disease, what change is observed in Total Lung Capacity (TLC)?

    Answer: TLC is reduced below 80% predicted

    Restrictive lung disease is defined by a reduced TLC (<80% predicted), reflecting decreased lung volumes caused by parenchymal, pleural, or neuromuscular disease.

  6. According to ATS/ERS guidelines, a significant bronchodilator response requires an increase in FEV1 or FVC of at least what percentage AND absolute volume?

    Answer: 12% and 200 mL

    ATS/ERS guidelines define a significant bronchodilator response as ≥12% relative increase AND ≥200 mL absolute increase in FEV1 or FVC from baseline.

  7. An elevated residual volume to total lung capacity (RV/TLC) ratio is most indicative of which finding?

    Answer: Air trapping due to obstructive disease

    An elevated RV/TLC ratio indicates significant air trapping, which occurs when obstructive disease prevents complete exhalation and gas accumulates in the lungs.