A 19-Year-Old Man with a History of Chronic Lung Problems

A 19-year-old man with a history of chronic lung problems dies due to respiratory distress after a prolonged episode of pneumonia.  Autopsy shows dilation of the bronchial tree, which extends almost to the pleural surface.  Many of the small airways are filled with mucin plugs containing abundant inflammatory cells and debris.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's autopsy findings?

A) Accumulation of proteinaceous material within the alveoli
B) Antigen-mediated aggregation of macrophages
C) Congenital deficiency of protease inhibitor
D) Impaired clearance of airway secretions
E) Increased pulmonary venous pressure

Correct Answer:

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