What flow-volume loop pattern is typically seen in restrictive disease?

What flow-volume loop pattern is typically seen in restrictive disease?

• A. Wonky shaped
• B. Skinny up and down
• C. Flat loop
• D. Normal loop

Answer: (B)

Restrictive disease reduces overall lung volumes, so the flow-volume loop becomes smaller in both inspiratory and expiratory phases. The pattern is best described as a “skinny” loop that is shortened vertically and horizontally but preserves the general shape. This reflects the reduced FVC/TLC while the mechanics of airflow remain relatively intact. A flat loop suggests a fixed airway obstruction, a normal loop would indicate no abnormal pattern, and a wonky shape is more characteristic of obstructive changes with altered expiratory flow.

Restrictive disease reduces overall lung volumes, so the flow-volume loop becomes smaller in both inspiratory and expiratory phases. The pattern is best described as a “skinny” loop that is shortened vertically and horizontally but preserves the general shape. This reflects the reduced FVC/TLC while the mechanics of airflow remain relatively intact.

A flat loop suggests a fixed airway obstruction, a normal loop would indicate no abnormal pattern, and a wonky shape is more characteristic of obstructive changes with altered expiratory flow.