In tutorial 8, we explore the patterns of abnormality in spirometry, including the defining features of airflow obstructions and restrictive lung disease, and reversibility to aid diagnosis of COPD and Asthma.

Key messages:

• Two main categories of lung disease; obstructive lung diseases and restrictive lung diseases.
• In airflow obstruction, the FEV1 is reduced but the FVC remains normal, resulting in an abnormally reduced FEV1/FVC ratio.
• The defining feature of restrictive lung disease is an abnormally reduced forced vital capacity.
• The administration of a bronchodilator helps us distinguish between Asthma and COPD.