A 24-Year-Old Man Undergoes Pulmonary Function Testing to Evaluate Dyspnea

A 24-year-old man undergoes pulmonary function testing to evaluate dyspnea on exertion.  He has no other symptoms except chronic low back pain.  The pain is worse at night and improves upon arising and with exercise.  He only takes naproxen as needed for back discomfort.  He smokes 1 pack of cigarettes per day and drinks a 6-pack of beer each weekend.  His erythrocyte sedimentation rate is 77 mm/hr.  The following values are obtained: (FEV₁: Forced expiratory volume in 1 second; FVC: Forced vital capacity; FRC: Functional residual capacity)
Which of the following best explains the pulmonary function test findings in this patient?

A) Chest wall motion restriction
B) Diffuse pulmonary fibrosis
C) Emphysema
D) Pulmonary vascular disease
E) Small airway obstruction

Correct Answer:

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