Spirometry

Question 1

FEV1 low (<80%), FVC low(<80%), FEV1/FVC ratio low (<70%)

Answer 1

Obstructive spirometry pattern

Question 2

FEV1 low(<80%), FVC low(<80%), FEV1/FVC ratio high (>70%)

Answer 2

Restrictive spirometry pattern

Question 3

Reversibility test for Asthma

Answer 3

positive

Question 4

Reversibility test for COPD

Answer 4

negative

Question 5

Reversibility test: explain

Answer 5

Give 400micrograms of Salbutamol and repeat spirometry after 15min

Question 6

Aetiology of Obstructive lung disease: 5 causes

Answer 6

COPD, Asthma, Emphysema, Cystic fibrosis, Bronchiectasis

Question 7

Aetiology of Restrictive lung disease: 3 pulmonary, 3 non-pulmonary causes

Answer 7

Pulmonary fibrosis/oedema, pneumonectomy; obesity, pregnancy, kyphoscoliosis

Question 8

Finger clubbing, chronic lung infections in childhood

Answer 8

Bronchiectasis

Question 9

Reversibility test: preparation

Answer 9

Stop bronchodilators prior (SABA 6h prior; LABA 12h prior) - if not severe

Question 10

Spirometry is useful for…

Answer 10

Classify lung conditions (obstructive x restrictive) and help monitor disease severity

Question 11

Main difference: Spirometry x Peak-Flow meter

Answer 11

Spirometry measures FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC ratio (peak-flow meter only measures FEV1)

Question 12

Best of 3 readings is used in interpretation

Answer 12

Both Spirometry and Peak-Flow meter (difference: in spirometry the best 2 readings should be within 5% of each other)