An elderly patient with history of smoking comes in with a
chronic cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. What do you see in the
patient’s chest X-ray? What is the diagnosis?
The patient’s chest X-ray shows emphysema with mild hyperinflation and increased interstitial markings, which is characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the USA. Typical symptoms include a persistent cough, exertional dyspnea, and increased sputum production. Tobacco is the most primary reason for COPD.
The patient’s chest X-ray shows emphysema with mild hyperinflation and increased interstitial markings, which is characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the USA. Typical symptoms include a persistent cough, exertional dyspnea, and increased sputum production. Tobacco is the most primary reason for COPD.
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