07-06-2011, 08:50 PM
A 72 year old man is diagnosed with interstitial lung disease. His PaO2 is 51 on room air. The FEV1/FVC ratio is 0.90. The diffusion capacity (DLCO) is only 20% of what is predicted for someone of his age, height, weight and sex. How do you explain his blood gas and DLCO measurements?
A. The disease process has destroyed pulmonary capillaries
B. Fibrosis has thickened the interstitium and impeded diffusion
C. His airways are scarred and obstructed
D. Lung restriction prevents adequate ventilation
A. The disease process has destroyed pulmonary capillaries
B. Fibrosis has thickened the interstitium and impeded diffusion
C. His airways are scarred and obstructed
D. Lung restriction prevents adequate ventilation