Pulmonary Function Tests: An Essential Guide

Introduction

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of noninvasive diagnostic procedures that evaluate lung function. These tests help assess how well the lungs take in and release air and how efficiently they transfer oxygen into the blood.

Types of Pulmonary Function Tests

Spirometry

Measures airflow and is commonly used to diagnose and monitor obstructive and restrictive lung diseases.

Gas Diffusion Tests

Evaluates how efficiently gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the lungs and blood.

Body Plethysmography

Determines lung volume and helps in diagnosing restrictive lung diseases.

Indications for PFTs

• Diagnosis of respiratory diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD)
• Monitoring of lung conditions
• Preoperative lung function assessment
• Evaluating occupational lung diseases

How PFTs Are Conducted

Patients breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer or other specialized equipment while following specific breathing instructions given by a healthcare professional.

Interpreting Results

Results include values such as Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in One Second (FEV1). Abnormal values may indicate conditions such as COPD, restrictive lung disease, or impaired gas exchange.