The respiratory system is involved in many diseases. Pulmonary Function tests represent a significant tool in our ability to evaluate and diagnose pulmonary conditions. Please discuss all of the components of pulmonary function testing, and discuss the findings one would see with a particular diagnosis of your choosing (asthma, COPD, emphysema, left sided heart failure, cor pulmonale, etc).

What changes in the FEV1/FVC would you expect to see with restrictive pulmonary disease?  Remember that in restrictive disease air flow is not hindered but the volume is reduced.

Derrick is a 72-year-old man who is attending a hospital emergency department with increased shortness of breath. This is due to an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Assessment on arrival at hospital: Respiratory rate = 32 breaths per minute Oxygen saturation level = 89% on 2 litres Oxygen via nasal specs Symptoms began approximately two days ago and have progressively worsened Appears to be tearful and anxious about being in hospital and his shortness of breath, but does not appear able to express his feelings on this Derrick tells a nurse that he has recently been told that he has 12 months left of his life Previous Medical History: COPD, Hypertension, Anxiety [No known drug allergies], Derrick was diagnosed with COPD ten years ago Derrick’s COPD has recently been classified at Stage 4 and he has 2 litres of Oxygen therapy at home Derrick is an ex-smoker. He was smoking up to 30 cigarettes a day but quit five years ago Derrick is experiencing more…

Please answer this question. When observing the results of a pre/post bronchodilator test, what is assessed to determine the need for bronchodilator therapy?