American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

According to the GOLD classification, what are the characteristics of COPD GOLD A?

1. 1 or fewer exacerbations per year, with no hospitalizations

2. Frequent exacerbations with hospitalizations

3. Severe dyspnea at rest

4. Frequent coughing fits

The correct answer is: 1 or fewer exacerbations per year, with no hospitalizations

The characteristics of COPD GOLD A are defined by having 1 or fewer exacerbations per year without any hospitalizations. This classification is part of the Global initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) framework, which is utilized to assess the severity and impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on patients. In the context of GOLD classification, patients categorized as A typically experience a milder form of the disease, showing fewer symptoms and less severity of airflow limitation. This classification aims to guide both treatment and management strategies to optimize patient outcomes. The focus on having either no exacerbations or minimal exacerbations that do not lead to hospitalization highlights the relatively stable condition of patients in this group. The remaining choices describe more severe states of COPD. Frequent exacerbations with hospitalizations would indicate a higher severity and risk, aligning with classifications seen in GOLD B and C rather than A. Severe dyspnea at rest signifies significant breathing difficulties, which would also place a patient within a more advanced classification, reflecting worse health status. Frequent coughing fits may occur in various stages of COPD, but they are not specific enough to define GOLD A. Overall, recognizing the characteristics of each GOLD category allows for proper assessment and targeted management of COPD, making it critical