Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) – Assessing Lung Health

A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a group of tests used to measure how well the lungs are functioning. It helps diagnose and monitor lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), other restrictive diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis.

Indications for PFT:

● Breathing problems: If you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, or chronic cough, a PFT can help evaluate lung function.

● Chronic lung conditions: Used to diagnose and monitor COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases.

● Pre-surgical assessment: Often performed before thoracic surgery or lung transplantation to evaluate lung health.

How Pulmonary Function Test Works:

● The patient is directed to breathe forcefully and normally into a mouthpiece connected to a machine called spirometer. The test measures various lung parameters such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1), and other lung volumes..

Normal Range:

● FEV1/FVC ratio: Typically 75% – 80% for healthy adults.

● Total lung capacity: Varies with age, sex, and height but should be within expected values based on these parameters.

Abnormal Test Significance:

● Low FEV1 or FVC: May indicate obstructive lung diseases like asthma or COPD.

● Restrictive pattern: Suggests interstitial lung disease or pulmonary fibrosis.

Management Based on Results:

●For obstructive diseases: Bronchodilators and steroids are used to relieve symptoms and improve airflow.

● For restrictive diseases: Treatment may include oxygen therapy, steroids, or lung transplant in severe cases.

Price in India:

Approx. ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 for a Pulmonary Function Test.