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FVC vs VC Forced Expiration — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyPhysiology - RespiratoryFVC vs VC Forced ExpirationFRCA Primary

Forced vital capacity (FVC) differs from vital capacity (VC) in that FVC:

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Correct answer: C — Is measured during a forced maximal expiration as fast as possible

FVC is measured during a maximal forced expiration (as fast and complete as possible) into a spirometer. In obstructive airways disease FVC may be less than slow VC because rapid expiration causes dynamic airway compression and air trapping (premature airway closure). In normal subjects FVC ≈ VC.

Reference: Power Kam 2018 Principles of Physiology for the Anaesthetist