Which of the following conditions is an example of restrictive lung disease?

Restrictive lung diseases are characterized by a decrease in lung volume, which leads to reduced airflow and difficulty in fully expanding the lungs during inhalation. Asbestosis is a prime example of a restrictive lung disease. It is a consequence of inhaling asbestos fibers, resulting in pulmonary fibrosis and scarring of lung tissue, which significantly restricts lung expansion and leads to difficulty in breathing.

The condition is marked by a reduced total lung capacity and forced vital capacity, thus falling within the restrictive category. Patients with asbestosis commonly present with symptoms such as progressive dyspnea and a dry cough, and their pulmonary function tests typically show a restrictive pattern.

In contrast, conditions like COPD, bronchiectasis, and asthma are classified as obstructive lung diseases, where the airflow is primarily obstructed during expiration rather than restricted during inspiration. This distinction is important as it helps in diagnosing and managing different types of lung diseases appropriately.