Question

A 65-year-old former smoker (40 pack-years) presents with chronic cough and exertional dyspnoea. Post-bronchodilator spirometry shows FEV₁ 1.6 L (60% predicted), FVC 2.7 L (85% predicted), and FEV₁/FVC ratio 0.59. Which interpretation best fits current Australian COPD guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Obstructive ventilatory defect consistent with COPD

Answer

Normal spirometry; COPD excluded

Answer

Restrictive ventilatory defect; consider interstitial lung disease

Answer

Mixed obstructive and restrictive pattern; repeat spirometry in 1 year

Answer

Asthma rather than COPD because FEV₁ is >50% predicted

Practice question

A 65-year-old former smoker (40 pack-years) presents with chronic cough and exertional dyspnoea. Post-bronchodilator spirometry shows FEV₁ 1.6 L (60% predicted), FVC 2.7 L (85% predicted), and FEV₁/FVC ratio 0.59. Which interpretation best fits current Australian COPD guidelines?