Pulmonary Function Test

Pulmonary Function Test

The Pulmonary Function Test (PFT), pronounced as /pʌlˈmɒnəri ˈfʌŋkʃən tɛst/, is a series of tests that measure how well the lungs are performing. This includes how well a person is able to breathe and how effective the lungs are in bringing oxygen into the body.

Etymology

The term "Pulmonary" comes from the Latin word "pulmonarius", meaning "of the lungs", and "Function Test" is a direct term used to describe a test of function or ability.

Procedure

The Pulmonary Function Test typically involves three main tests:

1. Spirometry: This measures the amount of air a person can breathe in and out and the speed of the breath.

2. Lung volume test: This measures the amount of air a person can hold in their lungs and how much remains after a normal exhale.

3. Diffusion capacity: This measures how well the lungs exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the blood.

Related Terms

• Spirometry
• Lung volume test
• Diffusion capacity
• Respiratory system
• Oxygen
• Carbon dioxide

See Also

• Respiratory therapy
• Pulmonology

References

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