Overview of pulmonary function testing

Standard tests of airway function and gas exchange include spirometry, peak expiratory flow monitoring, pulse oximetry, arterial blood gas analysis and venous blood gas analysis.

Tests performed in specialist respiratory laboratories include diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), static lung volumes, bronchial provocation testing, exercise testing and hypoxic challenge testing.

Pulmonary function testing is useful for:

• assessing causes of breathlessness and cough
• supporting the diagnosis of respiratory conditions including
  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • asthma
  • interstitial lung disease
  • pulmonary vascular disorders
  • respiratory muscle weakness
  • disorders of ventilatory control
• monitoring response to treatment
• assessing risk before surgery, flying and scuba diving.