Static lung compliance, measured during a breath-hold with no airflow, is characteristically increased in which condition?
- A Pulmonary fibrosis
- B Acute respiratory distress syndrome
- C Emphysema ✓
- D Severe obesity with atelectasis
Correct answer: C. Emphysema
Explanation
Emphysema destroys alveolar septa and elastic fibers, so elastic recoil falls and compliance (volume change per unit pressure change) rises; these patients breathe at higher lung volumes to generate enough recoil for flow. Fibrosis and ARDS stiffen the lung, lowering compliance, while obesity reduces compliance mainly through chest wall restriction and dependent atelectasis.
Reference: Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.