Which disorder is most likely to develop in an elderly patient with asthma?

An elderly patient with asthma is most likely to develop an airway disorder due to the nature of asthma itself, which primarily affects the airways. Asthma is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing. In older adults, changes associated with aging, such as reduced lung elasticity and weakened respiratory muscles, can exacerbate the condition.

Continual exposure to triggers such as allergens, pollutants, or respiratory infections increases the risk of acute asthma exacerbations, which further compromise airway function. Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to airway remodeling, causing permanent changes that affect airflow and overall pulmonary function.

While pulmonary edema, parenchymal lung diseases, or pulmonary vascular disorders can occur in the elderly due to a variety of reasons, they are not the direct consequence of asthma as airway disorders are. Thus, the direct relationship between asthma and airway disorders makes this the most likely choice for an elderly patient with a history of asthma.