A patient with COPD has decreased diffusion capacity; which gas exchange abnormality would you expect?

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Study for the NBME Form 13 Test with our comprehensive quiz collection, featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions to ensure your readiness. Enhance your knowledge with detailed explanations for each question.

Multiple Choice

A patient with COPD has decreased diffusion capacity; which gas exchange abnormality would you expect?

Explanation:
Impaired transfer of oxygen from the alveoli to the blood is the key idea. In COPD with reduced diffusion capacity, the alveolar-capillary membrane and capillary bed are damaged or decreased, so less O2 crosses into the blood, causing hypoxemia. At the same time, advanced COPD often involves hypoventilation and airflow obstruction with V/Q mismatch, which can raise the arterial CO2 level. So the typical gas exchange pattern is low PaO2 with elevated PaCO2.

Impaired transfer of oxygen from the alveoli to the blood is the key idea. In COPD with reduced diffusion capacity, the alveolar-capillary membrane and capillary bed are damaged or decreased, so less O2 crosses into the blood, causing hypoxemia. At the same time, advanced COPD often involves hypoventilation and airflow obstruction with V/Q mismatch, which can raise the arterial CO2 level. So the typical gas exchange pattern is low PaO2 with elevated PaCO2.

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