Question

A 72-year-old ex-smoker has chronic dyspnoea on exertion and chronic cough. Spirometry after appropriate bronchodilator administration shows FEV1/FVC ratio of 0.62 and FEV1 60 percent predicted. Which statement best reflects the diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) according to Canadian guidance?

Accepted Answer

COPD can be diagnosed because post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC is less than 0.70

Answer

COPD cannot be diagnosed because he is older than 70 years

Answer

COPD can only be diagnosed if FEV1 is less than 50 percent predicted

Answer

COPD diagnosis requires a positive bronchodilator reversibility test

Answer

COPD should be diagnosed solely on symptoms without spirometry

Practice question