Question
According to the GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) classification, what Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV₁) percentage of predicted defines Very Severe COPD (GOLD Stage IV)?
| A. |
FEV₁ ≥ 80% of predicted
|
| B. |
FEV₁ 50–79% of predicted
|
| C. |
FEV₁ 30–49% of predicted
|
| D. |
FEV₁ < 30% of predicted (or <50% with chronic respiratory failure)
|
Show Answer
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Correct Answer » D
Explanation
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|
The GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) guidelines classify COPD severity based on post-bronchodilator FEV₁, once the FEV₁/FVC ratio < 0.70 confirms airflow limitation.
FEV₁ = Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second
FVC = Forced Vital Capacity
GOLD Stages
| GOLD Stage |
Severity |
FEV₁ (% predicted) |
| GOLD 1 |
Mild |
≥ 80% |
| GOLD 2 |
Moderate |
50–79% |
| GOLD 3 |
Severe |
30–49% |
| GOLD 4 |
Very Severe |
< 30% (or <50% with respiratory failure) |
