Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of surfactant in the alveoli?

Accepted Answer

It reduces surface tension, preventing alveolar collapse during expiration.

Question 2

A patient presents with a productive cough, hemoptysis, and weight loss. Imaging reveals a mass in the bronchial epithelium. Which diagnosis is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Lung cancer (bronchogenic carcinoma)

Question 3

Which pulmonary volume is defined as the maximal amount of air that can be expired following a maximal inspiration, and what is its typical value?

Accepted Answer

Vital capacity; 4600 mL

Question 4

A 5-year-old child presents with drooling, dysphagia, high fever, and sits in a tripod position. What is the most likely causative organism?

Accepted Answer

Haemophilus influenzae type B

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may develop a 'hypoxic drive' to breathe?

Accepted Answer

Chronic hypercapnia desensitizes central chemoreceptors, making peripheral chemoreceptors responsive to low $$O_2.$$

Question 6

A patient with a history of working in a coal mine presents with progressive dyspnea and restrictive lung disease. Which mechanism best explains the pathophysiology?

Accepted Answer

Chronic inflammation and gradual destruction of connective tissue due to inhaled particles

Question 7

Which of the following arterial blood gas findings would you expect in a patient with severe asthma during an acute attack?

Accepted Answer

$$pCO_2$$ increased, $$pO_2$$ decreased

Question 8

Which of the following is a common complication of aspiration of gastric contents?

Accepted Answer

Aspiration pneumonia

Question 9

A patient with cystic fibrosis is most likely to experience which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Obstruction of airways by tenacious mucus and frequent respiratory infections

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the effect of a leftward shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin has increased affinity for oxygen, making it less available to tissues.

Question 11

A patient presents with sudden onset of severe chest pain, dyspnea, and loss of consciousness. Imaging reveals a large embolus in the pulmonary artery. What is the most likely source of this embolus?

Accepted Answer

Deep vein thrombosis in the legs

Question 12

Which of the following is the primary cause of respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants?

Accepted Answer

Lack of surfactant in alveoli

Question 13

A patient with chronic bronchitis is likely to exhibit which of the following clinical features?

Accepted Answer

Constant productive cough with thick, purulent secretions

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why pulmonary edema impairs gas exchange?

Accepted Answer

It increases the thickness of the alveolar-capillary membrane, reducing diffusion of $$O_2.$$

Question 15

A patient with a history of asthma presents with rapid, deep respirations (Kussmaul breathing). Which acid-base disturbance is most likely present?

Accepted Answer

Metabolic acidosis

Question 16

Which of the following is a key distinguishing feature of bronchiectasis compared to other obstructive lung diseases?

Accepted Answer

Irreversible dilation of medium-sized bronchi with copious, foul-smelling sputum

Question 17

A patient with tuberculosis is found to have cavitation on chest radiograph. What does this finding indicate?

Accepted Answer

Active secondary infection with tissue necrosis and spread of organisms

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of emphysema?

Accepted Answer

Destruction of alveolar walls leads to loss of surface area for gas exchange and air trapping.

Question 19

A patient with severe pneumonia develops hypoxemia. Which of the following mechanisms best explains this finding?

Accepted Answer

Decreased diffusion of oxygen due to exudate and inflammation in alveoli

Question 20

Which of the following is the most appropriate initial treatment for a patient with acute epiglottitis?

Accepted Answer

Immediate administration of oxygen and antimicrobial therapy

Respiratory System Disorders: Structure, Function, and Pathology

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