Pathophysiology of COPD Exacerbation

Very Hard Physiological Adaptation Pathophysiology

A 62-year-old male with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted to the emergency department with increasing shortness of breath and a productive cough with green sputum. Arterial blood gas analysis reveals a pH of 7.32, PaCO2 of 58 mmHg, and HCO3 of 28 mEq/L. Based on the patient's history and blood gas results, which of the following pathophysiological mechanisms would most likely explain this patient’s condition?

Increased airway resistance due to bronchoconstriction and excessive mucus production.

Alveolar destruction leading to impaired gas exchange and respiratory acidosis.

Decreased respiratory drive due to central nervous system depression.

Vascular permeability changes leading to pulmonary edema and compromised oxygenation.

Hint

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