Restrictive lung disease?
Your reply |
If a low (F)VC is associated with a normal FEV1/FVC ratio, this signifies a restrictive disorder. |
| Thank you; let us explore your views by analyzing the expanded data set. | |
- Caucasian male, age 54 yr, standing height 159 cm, non-smoker.
- breathless on exercise
- shortness of breath on exercise
- no wheezing, no chronic cough or phlegm.
Spirometry |
||||
index |
observed |
post bronchodilator |
predicted |
lower limit |
FEV1 |
1.84 L |
2.13 |
3.00 L |
2.13 L |
FVC |
2.13 L |
2.81 |
3.75 L |
2.68 L |
FEV1%FVC |
69% |
76% |
78% |
66% |
Comments |
You are right in asserting that the FVC is below normal limits. You are also right in asserting that the FEV1/FVC ratio is within the normal range. |
Let us explore your views in some greater detail.
- As there is
no bronchodilator responsiveness, I stick to a restrictive
disorder.
- There is bronchodilator responsiveness, this precludes a restrictive
ventilatory defect.