Pulmonary Function Tests(PFT)by Editorial Staff and Contributors DefinitionPulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of breathing tests. They can show how well your lungs are working. PFTs may measure:
Respiratory System Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. Reasons for TestPFTs may be used to diagnose lung conditions or diseases, such as: These tests may also be done to:
What to ExpectPrior to Test
Description of TestMost tests will require you to breathe into a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be attached to a simple handheld device or be part of a larger machine. Examples of devices are a spirometer or peak flow meter. You may be asked to breathe in and out in different patterns and speeds. You will rest between tests. Tell the technician right away if you have breathing problems, pain, or dizziness during testing.
Peak Flow Meter Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. Other tests that may be used in some situations include:
After TestRest until you feel able to leave. You may be given medicine if testing has caused wheezing, coughing, and/or difficulty breathing. How Long Will It Take?20-45 minutes Will It Hurt?The test does not hurt. You may feel symptoms of your lung condition during or immediately following testing. ResultsYour doctor will compare the results of your tests with normal values based on your age, sex, and height. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and decide if further testing or treatment is needed. Call Your DoctorAfter the test, call your doctor if any of the following occurs:
RESOURCES:American Lung Association Family Doctor.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Lung Association COPD Canada REFERENCES:Birnbaum S, Barreiro TJ. Methacholine challenge testing: identifying its diagnostic role, testing, coding, and reimbursement (review). Chest. 2007;131(6):1932-1935. Chang J, Mosenifar Z. Differentiating COPD from asthma in clinical practice. J Intensive Care Med. 2007;22(5):300-309. Chu MW. Introduction to pulmonary function. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2008;41:387-396. Crapo RO, Casaburi R, et al. Guidelines for methacholine and exercise challenge testing (1999). Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2000;161:309. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs). Duke University Health System. DukeHealth.org website. Available at: http://www.dukehea.... Accessed November 12, 2010. Walsh JM. Interpreting pulmonary function test. Loyola University Medical Education Network website. Available at: http://www.meddean.... Accessed October 30, 2006. Last reviewed October 2012 by Brian Randall, MD |