Pneumology: What happens to lung volumes in COPD?

Question

What happens to lung volumes in COPD?

H K · Accepted Answer

Initially stable, more severe obstruction we get airtrapping and later hyperinflation
Manifested as increase in total lung capacity (TLC) (hyperinflation) and increased residual volume (air-trapping)
Diffusion capacity (DLCO) usually normal, but can decrease due to emphysema

Pneumology

What happens to lung volumes in COPD?

Initially stable, more severe obstruction we get airtrapping and later hyperinflation Manifested as increase in total lung capacity (TLC) (hyperinflation) and increased residual volume (air-trapping) Diffusion capacity (DLCO) usually normal, but can decrease due to emphysema

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