Which of the following is an example of a restrictive lung disease?

Restrictive lung diseases are characterized by a reduction in lung volumes, which translates to a decrease in the ability of the lungs to expand fully. This can occur due to various factors, including lung tissue scarring or stiffness, which hampers expansion during inhalation.

Pulmonary fibrosis exemplifies this category, as it involves the thickening and stiffening of lung tissue, resulting in reduced compliance and limited lung expansion. This manifests in a decreased total lung capacity (TLC) and forced vital capacity (FVC), which are classic indicators of restrictive lung disease. The underlying scar tissue in pulmonary fibrosis restricts the flow of oxygen into the bloodstream and compromises respiratory mechanics.

In contrast, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema fall under obstructive lung diseases. These conditions primarily affect the ability to exhale air from the lungs rather than inhaling. In obstructive diseases, there is typically an increase in airway resistance, leading to airflow limitation during expiration, while lung volumes may remain normal or even increased in some cases.

In summary, pulmonary fibrosis vividly illustrates the defining characteristics of restrictive lung disease, aligning with diminished lung capacity and compromised lung expansion.