The following data are obtained from an 80-year-old male subject complaining of shortness of breath: Which of the following interpretations is most consistent with the data?
A) Emphysema
B) Bronchitis
C) Pulmonary fibrosis
D) Asthma

Question

The following data are obtained from an 80-year-old male subject complaining of shortness of breath:  Which of the following interpretations is most consistent with the data?
A) Emphysema 
B) Bronchitis 
C) Pulmonary fibrosis 
D) Asthma

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Emphysema is a common cause of shortness of breath in older individuals, as it is a condition that damages the air sacs in the lungs and makes it harder to breathe. The code in the question does not provide any evidence of bronchitis or asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis is another possible cause of shortness of breath but is less common in older individuals than emphysema.

The Following Data Are Obtained from an 80-Year-Old Male Subject