Description
PFT DLCO Test (Pulmonary Function Test with Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide) is a specialized breathing test used to measure how well your lungs transfer oxygen from the air into the blood. It is one of the most important tests for assessing lung function at a deeper, more accurate level.
Unlike routine spirometry, the DLCO test evaluates how efficiently gases move across the lung membranes, helping doctors detect early lung damage even when basic tests appear normal.
What Is the DLCO Test?
The DLCO test measures how well carbon monoxide moves from the lungs into the bloodstream during a controlled breath. Because carbon monoxide behaves similarly to oxygen in the lungs, this test gives a precise estimate of gas exchange efficiency.
Why Is a PFT DLCO Test Performed?
This test is recommended to evaluate:
- Shortness of breath
- Interstitial lung disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Pre-surgical lung assessment
How Is the DLCO Test Done?
You will be asked to breathe in a small, safe amount of test gas, hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale. The machine measures how much gas was absorbed into the blood.
The procedure is simple, painless, and takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
What Do DLCO Results Show?
DLCO results indicate whether the lungs are efficiently transferring oxygen into the bloodstream. Reduced DLCO values may suggest lung scarring, emphysema, pulmonary vascular disease, or anemia.
Benefits of PFT DLCO Testing
- Detects early lung damage
- Provides detailed lung function analysis
- Helps guide treatment decisions
- Useful for monitoring lung disease progression
Book a PFT DLCO Test
If you are experiencing breathlessness, chronic cough, or lung disease, a PFT DLCO test offers an accurate way to assess how well your lungs are working and helps doctors plan appropriate treatment.
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