**Core Concept**
Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that measures lung volumes and capacities by assessing airflow in and out of the lungs. It is a crucial tool in diagnosing and managing respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Spirometry can measure and demonstrate several lung volumes and capacities, including:
* Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): the total amount of air that can be exhaled from the lungs after a maximal inhalation.
* Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1): the amount of air that can be exhaled in the first second of a forced exhalation.
* Tidal Volume (TV): the amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal, relaxed breathing.
* Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV): the additional volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation.
However, spirometry cannot directly measure lung volumes such as residual volume (RV) and functional residual capacity (FRC), which require other tests like helium dilution or plethysmography.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Spirometry can measure FVC, so this option is incorrect.
* **Option B:** Spirometry can measure FEV1, so this option is incorrect.
* **Option C:** Spirometry can measure TV, so this option is incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When interpreting spirometry results, it's essential to consider the patient's age, sex, height, and ethnic background, as these factors can affect lung volumes and capacities.
**Correct Answer: D.**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.