Answer to Question 1
ANS: A
In the face of a severe deficiency of alpha1-antitrypsin (i.e., when serum levels fall below a pro-tective threshold value of 11 mol/L, or 57 mg/dl), neutrophil elastase may go unchecked, caus-ing breakdown of elastin and resulting dissolution of alveolar walls.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: C
The mechanisms of airflow obstruction in COPD include inflammation and obstruction of small airways (<2 bronchospasm.