Pathophysiology Practice Questions Related

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In which patient is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency the likely cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

  • A. A 30-year-old who has smoked for 3 years
  • B. A 65-year-old man who worked as a taxi driver most of his life
  • C. A 70-year-old woman who smoked for 40 years
  • D. A 50-year-old with exposure to secondhand smoke
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that can lead to COPD at a young age, even in light smokers. Choice B is less likely as the patient's occupation does not directly correlate with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Choice C, a 70-year-old woman with a long smoking history, is more likely to have COPD due to smoking rather than alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Choice D, exposure to secondhand smoke, is not a common cause of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency-related COPD.