Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

What is the term for a non-infectious condition affecting the lungs characterized by inflammation and mucus production?

1. Asthma.

2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

3. Pneumonia.

4. Interstitial lung disease.

The correct answer is: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The term that describes a non-infectious condition affecting the lungs characterized by inflammation and mucus production is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly known as COPD. This condition encompasses a group of lung diseases, primarily emphysema and chronic bronchitis, which lead to reduced airflow and difficulty breathing. In COPD, inflammation of the airways is a key feature, and this chronic inflammation results in an increase in mucus production that can obstruct airflow and cause coughing. The progressive nature of COPD means that symptoms can worsen over time, often leading to significant impairment in lung function. While asthma also involves inflammation and mucus production, it is primarily characterized by reversible airway obstruction and can be triggered by allergens or exercise, distinguishing it from the permanent airflow limitation seen in COPD. Pneumonia, on the other hand, is an infection of the lungs, which is not applicable in this context since the question specifically asks for a non-infectious condition. Interstitial lung disease refers to a group of disorders affecting the lung interstitium, also not fitting the description of chronic inflammation and mucus production as central features. Thus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease accurately encompasses the characteristics highlighted in the question.