What condition is indicated by a spirometry result showing FEV1/FVC at 65% of predicted with no bronchodilator improvement?

The spirometry result indicating a FEV1/FVC ratio of 65% of predicted with no improvement after bronchodilator administration suggests a specific type of lung disease. In this case, the low FEV1/FVC ratio signifies obstructive lung disease, which is characterized by airflow limitation.

The key factor is the absence of bronchodilator reversibility. Conditions like asthma or reactive airway disease typically demonstrate some degree of reversibility after bronchodilator treatment, meaning that the airflow obstruction can improve with medication. However, if there is no improvement, this points towards an irreversible condition.

Irreversible obstructive lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are marked by chronic inflammation and damage to lung tissue, leading to a persistent reduction in airflow that does not respond significantly to bronchodilators. Therefore, the spirometry findings—along with the lack of response to bronchodilators—strongly indicate that the condition in question is irreversible obstructive lung disease.