A 31-Year-Old Man Has Been Diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary

question 17

Multiple Choice

A 31-year-old man has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as a result of being homozygous for the ZZ mutation of the -1 antitrypsin (AAT) gene alleles. His wife has been tested and has the MM genotype on her AAT gene alleles. The man is worried that his three children may eventually develop COPD. What is your best response?

• A)"Because your wife does not have the mutation, and neither of your parents has the disease, your children will not be affected."
• B)"Because your wife is not affected and is not a carrier, your children will have normal levels of AAT, and their risk is the same as for the general population."
• C)"Because you have the mutations, and your wife does not, your son will be at an increased risk for developing COPD, but your daughter will only be a carrier."
• D)"Because your children will each have only one mutated gene allele, their risk for COPD is primarily dependent on chronic environmental exposure to inhalation irritants."

---

Definitions:

Tympanic Membrane Sensors

Devices used to measure temperature or detect other conditions by assessing changes in the tympanic membrane, or eardrum.

Aspirin

A medication used to reduce pain, fever, inflammation, and prevent blood clots; also known for its role in heart attack and stroke prevention.

Self-Medication

The act of patients treating their own ailments and conditions without professional supervision, often using over-the-counter drugs.

Older Patient

Refers to an individual of advanced age receiving medical care, often with considerations for their specific health needs and vulnerabilities.