Pulmonology · USMLE Step 1

USMLE Pulmonology

High-yield pulmonary pathology, lung volumes, and acid-base and ventilation concepts tested on USMLE Step 1, one fact per card.

40 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.

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What is tidal volume (TV)?
The volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a normal, quiet breath.
What is residual volume (RV)?
The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal forced expiration.
Vital capacity (VC) equals tidal volume plus inspiratory reserve volume plus ____.
expiratory reserve volume
Functional residual capacity (FRC) equals expiratory reserve volume plus ____.
residual volume
Total lung capacity (TLC) equals vital capacity plus ____.
residual volume
Inspiratory capacity (IC) equals tidal volume plus ____.
inspiratory reserve volume
How does the FEV1/FVC ratio change in obstructive lung disease?
It decreases.
How does the FEV1/FVC ratio change in restrictive lung disease?
It stays normal or increases.
How does total lung capacity (TLC) change in obstructive lung disease?
It increases, due to air trapping.
How does total lung capacity (TLC) change in restrictive lung disease?
It decreases.
How does residual volume (RV) change in obstructive lung disease?
It increases, due to air trapping.
What happens to the A-a gradient in hypoxemia caused by V/Q mismatch, shunt, or diffusion limitation?
It is elevated (increased).
What happens to the A-a gradient in hypoxemia caused by hypoventilation or high altitude?
It stays normal.
In an upright lung, where is the V/Q ratio highest?
At the apex.
In an upright lung, where is the V/Q ratio lowest?
At the base.

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