What is a pulmonary function test
Pulmonary function tests are a series of tests used to assess the ability of the lungs to inhale and exhale air, mainly measuring indicators such as vital capacity, air flow velocity, and gas exchange efficiency. It is non-invasive and safe, suitable for both adults and children, and is a commonly used examination tool in the respiratory department.
Common pulmonary function test items
1.Spirometry
The most basic pulmonary function test measures the volume of air that can be exhaled quickly after a deep inhalation (forced vital capacity, FVC) and the volume of air exhaled in the first second (FEV1).
It is used for diagnosing obstructive pulmonary diseases such as asthma and COPD.
2. Lung Volume Measurement
Assess the total amount of air that the lungs can hold, including residual capacity (RV), functional residual capacity (FRC), etc.
Help diagnose restrictive lung diseases (such as pulmonary fibrosis).
3. Diffusion Capacity Test
Measure the ability of oxygen to enter the bloodstream from the alveoli and assess the gas exchange function of the lungs.
It is often used in the diagnosis of interstitial lung lesions and pulmonary vascular diseases.
4. Bronchial provocation test/dilation test
Provocation test: Airway constriction is induced by inhaling drugs (such as acetylcholine), which is used to diagnose atypical asthma.
Diastolic test: Remeasure lung function after inhaling bronchodilators, observe airway reversibility, and assist in the diagnosis of asthma.
Who needs to have a pulmonary function test
If you have the following conditions, the doctor may recommend that you have a pulmonary function test:
✅ Persistent cough, expectoration, wheezing
✅ Smoking or prolonged exposure to dust, harmful gases
✅ Confirmed or suspected asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis or other diseases
✅ Preoperative assessment (such as chest or upper abdominal surgery)
✅ Monitor the progression of existing lung disease or the effectiveness of treatment
Post time: Jun-05-2025