Medicine

Last updated on: January 23rd, 2024

Hi there!

You’re looking at a multiple-choice question from QBank Prepper (the newest of four distinct learning formats available in Clinical Odyssey). Try it out, and have fun improving your clinical skills.

Interstitial lung disease 1

A 64-year-old man with a history of smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) comes to his physician with an 8-month history of progressive shortness of breath, non-productive cough, and fatigue. He works from a home office in the information technology field. On physical examination, he has bibasal inspiratory crackles and clubbing in both hands.


Lung function tests show the following:


- Total lung capacity: 6.0 L (decreased)

- Functional residual capacity: 2.9 L (decreased)

- Residual volume: 1.9 L (decreased)

- Forced expiratory volume/Forced vital capacity: 70% of predicted (low normal)

- Diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO): 55% of predicted (decreased)

Chest x-ray shows bilateral reticulonodular shadows and traction bronchiectasis. High-resolution CT scan shows patchy peripheral reticular abnormalities, ground glass opacities, subpleural honeycombing, and traction bronchiectasis. The upper lung fields appear to be more involved than the lower lung fields. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Want to continue practicing?

Subscribe to Clinical Odyssey today.
  • Enjoy unlimited access to 700+ learning modules.
  • Safely improve your skills, anytime and anywhere.
  • Get answers to your follow-up questions from practicing physicians.
Learn more ➜