Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) Practice Exam

The statement regarding emphysema that is true focuses on the decreased FEV1/FVC ratio. In emphysema, there is destruction of the alveoli and loss of elastic recoil in the lungs, which leads to airflow limitation primarily during expiration. The forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) tends to decrease more significantly than the forced vital capacity (FVC), resulting in a lower FEV1/FVC ratio.

In healthy individuals, the FEV1/FVC ratio is typically greater than 70%, indicating normal airflow. However, in patients with emphysema, this ratio falls below 70%, signifying obstructive lung disease. Understanding this ratio is crucial in diagnosing and characterizing the severity of conditions such as emphysema.

The other statements regarding emphysema are inaccurate. While emphysema does indeed affect expiratory flow rates, it's not only limited to that; it primarily causes a decrease in airflow. The condition is characterized by loss of lung elasticity, not an increase. Lastly, emphysema is a chronic, progressive disease that cannot be completely cured with medication; treatments are usually aimed at managing symptoms and slowing disease progression.