Complete Pulmonary Function Test (Complete PFT)

Complete Pulmonary Function Test (Complete PFT)
Early Detection and Effective Management of Lung Diseases

Lungs are vital to the respiratory system; their declining function can directly compromise overall health. But how can we determine whether our lungs are still functioning at full capacity? Since breathing happens without conscious thought each day, subtle issues might go unnoticed. Especially when one develops a lung-related condition, such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an accurate diagnosis is essential. Without it, effective treatment planning and targeted care are hard to achieve. These are where pulmonary function testing plays a crucial role in enabling effective management of lung diseases. 

Short of breath? Check your lung health!

Let’s explore common respiratory conditions that affect lung function.

1. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects airways in your lungs, causing individuals to cough or wheeze during physical exertion or after exposure to allergens such as dust mites, pollen, mold spores, or animal dander. Irritants like cold air, respiratory viruses, or cigarette smoke can also trigger airway constriction, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs. It can result in chest tightness, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and wheezing. 
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways and lung parenchymal tissue, making it difficult to exhale fully. It is due to narrowed airways and excessive mucus production. The condition is prevalent in individuals with a long history of smoking or prolonged exposure to respiratory irritants. Common symptoms include a persistent cough, increased mucus production, and shortness of breath during physical activity. Without appropriate treatment, the symptoms can gradually worsen over time.
3. Emphysema is related to COPD. In COPD, damaged tiny alveoli merge into larger air sacs, which diminishes the surface area, leading to difficulty breathing due to compromised oxygen and carbon dioxide gas exchange in the lungs. Patients typically experience progressive shortness of breath, which is irreversible. Early detection can facilitate appropriate treatment and improve quality of life.
4. Restrictive lung disease, though rare, can occur in individuals with autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid lung disease or as a complication of COVID-19 pneumonia.

What can Complete PFT reveal? 

A Complete Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a comprehensive evaluation of lung performance, enabling doctors to better gauge the overall functional status of the lungs. It is composed of 3 key components:

1. Spirometry – This test measures the volume and speed of air inhaled and exhaled. It can detect obstructive airway diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and COPD. 
2. Lung Volumes – measure the total amount of air the lungs can hold, including the residual volume that remains after a complete exhalation. It helps assess structural or size-related abnormalities of the lungs, such as lung hyperinflation or atelectasis (lung collapse).
3. DLCO (Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide) – This test evaluates how effectively the alveoli exchange gases—particularly oxygen and carbon dioxide—between the alveoli and the bloodstream. It is particularly valuable for diagnosing interstitial lung diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis.
   Complete PFT is suitable for those with unexplained breathing difficulties or those at risk for lung disease. It enables accurate diagnosis and treatment plans.

Benefits of Complete PFT

Complete PFT offers a more in-depth and accurate understanding of lung function. Its key benefits include:

• Accurate diagnoses of respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD.
• Monitor the progression of the disease and evaluate long-term treatment outcomes.
• Facilitate treatment planning and assess preoperative physical fitness for surgery.
• Differentiate between obstructive lung diseases (which impair exhalation) and restrictive lung diseases (which limit lung expansion).
• This comprehensive assessment empowers physicians to deliver precise, individualized care based on a clearer picture of a patient’s respiratory health.
                                             

Who should consider Complete PFT?

• Individuals experiencing unexplained shortness of breath or chronic breathlessness
• Smokers or those exposed to dust, fumes, or chemical irritants in the workplace
• Patients with chronic lung conditions such as pneumonia, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, or COPD
• Individuals requiring preoperative lung function assessment before major surgeries, such as cardiac or thoracic procedures

This non-invasive, straightforward test offers valuable insights for better lung health management.