22nd February 2024

Pulmonary function tests

Spirometry is likely to show an obstructive pattern due to damage to the lung parenchyma from bronchiole dilatation and impairment of the mucociliary escalator, thereby causing a reduction of oxygen transfer and retention of carbon dioxide within the pulmonary capillary system. The patient will also have decreased Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV 1) as compared to Forced vital capacity (FVC), thus overall ratio of FEV1 / FEV <70 %.