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Question

A 70-year-old male, with a history of smoking presents with progressive dyspnea and dry cough. Examination reveals clubbing and fine basal crackles. Spirometry shows low forced vital capacity (FVC) and low diffusion capacity (DLCO). CT Chest shows extensive bilateral reticular shadows and subpleural honeycombing. What is the most likely diagnosis?

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CMS 2026 Surgery, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, and PSM Question Paper (02-Aug-2026)
The correct answer is

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Progressive dyspnea, dry cough, clubbing, fine bibasal crackles, a restrictive spirometry pattern (low FVC, low DLCO) and CT showing bilateral reticular shadows with subpleural honeycombing are the classic features of usual interstitial pneumonia pattern seen in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Sarcoidosis and COPD do not typically show honeycombing, and bronchiectasis shows a restrictive-obstructive picture with bronchial wall thickening rather than honeycombing.

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Similar Questions

  1. A patient with a history of smoking presents to the emergency with a complaint of breathlessness for the last two days. On examination, he was found to be cyanosed and had bilateral rhonchi. ABG was done, which shows:

    pH: 7.12

    PaCO2: 80 mmHg

    PaO2: 46 mmHg

    HCO3-: 29 mEq/L

    Based on the history, clinical examination and ABG finding, the most likely diagnosis is:

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    3. Increased residual volume

    4. Decreased peak expiratory flow rate

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  3. A 40-year-old obese bank accountant presents with complaints of excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue. His spouse reports that he has loud snoring and early morning tiredness. Which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. The patient is most likely suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

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    3. Treatment of choice is Zolpidem.

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Important Questions from COPD

  1. Kartagener syndrome has the following features EXCEPT:
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