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) |