A 65-year-old ex-smoker presents with chronic productive cough and exertional dyspnoea. Spirometry after bronchodilator shows FEV1/FVC ratio 0.55 with...

Question

A 65-year-old ex-smoker presents with chronic productive cough and exertional dyspnoea. Spirometry after bronchodilator shows FEV1/FVC ratio 0.55 with minimal reversibility. Which investigation result confirms the diagnosis of COPD according to Australian guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Post-bronchodilator spirometry showing persistent FEV1/FVC ratio

Answer

Chest X-ray showing hyperinflated lungs

Answer

Pre-bronchodilator spirometry with FEV1/FVC ratio

Answer

Peak expiratory flow variability >20%

Answer

Arterial blood gases showing raised PaCO2

au-racgp MCQ (SBA): Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

A 65-year-old ex-smoker presents with chronic productive cough and exertional dyspnoea. Spirometry after bronchodilator shows FEV1/FVC ratio 0.55 with minimal reversibility. Which investigation result confirms the diagnosis of COPD according to Australian guidelines?