In chronic bronchitis, cyanosis is more widespread. Which disease feature supports this statement?

• A. Chronic bronchitis shows cyanosis that is more generalized
• B. Emphysema shows cyanosis only in the nail beds
• C. Both have no cyanosis
• D. Cyanosis is absent in chronic bronchitis

Answer: (C)

Chronic bronchitis typically causes chronic hypoxemia with V/Q mismatch, so deoxygenated blood accumulates and cyanosis appears not just in one spot but across mucous membranes and skin (the blue bloater pattern). Emphysema tends to preserve oxygenation longer and patients often look less cyanotic. So the feature that supports the statement is generalized cyanosis seen in chronic bronchitis, reflecting widespread hypoxemia.