Pulmonary function tests

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of tests that measure how well your lungs work. This includes how well you're able to breathe and how effective your lungs are able to bring oxygen to the rest of your body.

Pronunciation

Pulmonary: /pʊlˈmɛnəri/ Function: /ˈfʌŋkʃən/ Tests: /tɛsts/

Etymology

The term "pulmonary" comes from the Latin word "pulmonarius," meaning "of the lungs." "Function" is derived from the Latin word "functio," meaning "performance, execution." The term "test" comes from the Old French "test," meaning "small vessel."

Related Terms

• Spirometry: This is the most common type of pulmonary function test. It measures how much air you can breathe in and out. It also measures how fast you can empty the air out of your lungs.
• Lung volume: This measures the amount of air in the lungs without forcibly blowing out. Some people can have normal spirometry tests but have reduced lung volume.
• Diffusion capacity: This measures how well the lungs exchange gases. This is an important part of lung function. The test can help diagnose certain types of lung disease that can cause a decreased diffusion capacity.
• Plethysmography: This test measures lung volume and airway resistance. It can help diagnose conditions that cause changes in lung volume or abnormalities in the body's airways.

See Also

• Respiratory system
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Asthma
• Pulmonology

References

• American Lung Association
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

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