Question
A 65-year-old male smoker is diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Post-bronchodilator spirometry shows an FEV₁/FVC ratio of <0.70 and an FEV₁ of 42% of the predicted value. According to the GOLD classification, what is the severity of airflow obstruction?
| A. |
Mild |
| B. |
Moderate |
| C. |
Severe |
| D. |
Very severe |
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » C Explanation |
 |
GOLD Criteria for COPD Severity:
The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) classifies COPD severity based on post-bronchodilator spirometry results, specifically the FEV₁/FVC ratio and FEV₁ (% predicted):
| Stage | FEV₁ (% Predicted) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mild (GOLD 1) | ≥80% | Minimal airflow obstruction |
| Moderate (GOLD 2) | 50–79% | Moderate airflow obstruction |
| Severe (GOLD 3) | 30–49% | Severe airflow obstruction |
| Very Severe (GOLD 4) | <30% | Very severe obstruction |
Interpretation for this Patient:
- FEV₁/FVC < 0.7: Confirms the diagnosis of COPD (airflow obstruction).
- FEV₁ = 42% of predicted: Falls in the range of 30–49%, which corresponds to severe (GOLD 3) airflow obstruction.