Hi there! I'm Dr. Smith, a pulmonologist with over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating respiratory conditions. Pulmonary function tests are one of my areas of expertise. Let me explain more about what they are, and how DLCO fits in.

A pulmonary function test (PFT) is a non-invasive test that measures how well your lungs are working. It is a common test that is used to diagnose a variety of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis.

A PFT with DLCO is a type of PFT that also measures the **diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO)**. This measures how well oxygen passes from the air sacs in your lungs into your bloodstream.

Why is a PFT with DLCO performed?

A PFT with DLCO may be performed for a number of reasons, including:

* To diagnose a respiratory condition. As mentioned above, PFTs can help diagnose a range of respiratory conditions. DLCO is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions that affect the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs) and the capillaries (tiny blood vessels) that surround them. These conditions include:
* Pulmonary fibrosis: This condition causes scarring and thickening of the alveoli, making it difficult for oxygen to pass into the bloodstream.
* Sarcoidosis: This condition causes small patches of inflammation in the lungs, which can also affect the alveoli.
* Pulmonary hypertension: This condition is characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which can damage the alveoli and capillaries.
* Emphysema: This condition is a type of COPD that damages the alveoli, making them less efficient at exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide.

* **To monitor the progression of a respiratory condition.** PFTs with DLCO can be used to track how well your lungs are working over time. This information can help your doctor determine if your condition is getting worse and if your treatment plan is effective.

* **To evaluate your risk of complications from surgery.** If you are having surgery, your doctor may order a PFT with DLCO to assess your lung function. This is especially important if you are having surgery on your chest or abdomen, or if you have a history of smoking or lung problems.

How is a PFT with DLCO performed?

A PFT with DLCO is a simple and painless test that is performed in a pulmonary function laboratory. The test is usually performed by a respiratory therapist.

During the test, you will be asked to breathe into a mouthpiece that is connected to a machine called a spirometer. The spirometer measures the amount of air that you breathe in and out, as well as how quickly you breathe.

To measure your DLCO, you will be asked to inhale a small amount of a gas mixture that contains a very low concentration of carbon monoxide. This gas is not harmful in the small amount that is used for the test. After holding your breath for a few seconds, you will be asked to exhale into the spirometer. The spirometer will measure the amount of carbon monoxide that is left in your exhaled breath. This measurement is used to calculate your DLCO.

**What do the results of a PFT with DLCO mean?**

The results of a PFT with DLCO will be interpreted by your doctor. The results will be compared to normal values for your age, sex, height, and race.

If your DLCO is lower than normal, it may indicate that you have a condition that is affecting the ability of your lungs to transfer oxygen into your bloodstream.

If your DLCO is normal, it means that your lungs are functioning well and that oxygen is able to pass easily from your lungs into your blood.

**Are there any risks associated with a PFT with DLCO?**

A PFT with DLCO is a very safe test. There are no serious risks associated with the test. You may feel a little lightheaded or dizzy after the test, but this will usually go away quickly.

**Overall, a pulmonary function test with DLCO is a valuable tool that can help diagnose and monitor a variety of respiratory conditions.**

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DLCO. DLCO or TLCO (diffusing capacity or transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide (CO),) is the extent to which oxygen passes from the air sacs of the lungs into the blood. Commonly, it refers to the test used to determine this parameter. It was introduced in 1909.read more >>