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Review
. 2011 May;80(2):84-90.

Pulmonary function tests

Affiliations
Review

Pulmonary function tests

Harpreet Ranu et al. Ulster Med J. 2011 May.

Abstract

Pulmonary function tests are valuable investigations in the management of patients with suspected or previously diagnosed respiratory disease. They aid diagnosis, help monitor response to treatment and can guide decisions regarding further treatment and intervention. The interpretation of pulmonary functions tests requires knowledge of respiratory physiology. In this review we describe investigations routinely used and discuss their clinical implications.

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Figures

Fig 1
Fig 1
Normal Spirometry
Fig 2
Fig 2
Spirometry in obstructive lung disease.
Fig 3
Fig 3
Spirometry in restrictive lung disease.
Fig 4
Fig 4
Normal Flow volume curve
Fig 5
Fig 5
Flow volume curve in obstructive lung disease e.g. COPD
Fig 6
Fig 6
Flow volume curve in restrictive lung disease e.g. interstitial lung disease.
Fig 7
Fig 7
A bronchial carcinoma obstructing the right main bronchus.
Fig 8
Fig 8
Flow volume curve seen with intra-thoracic airway obstruction.
Fig 9
Fig 9
Tracheal stenosis seen at rigid bronchoscopy.
Fig 10
Fig 10
Flow volume curve seen with fixed extra-thoracic airway obstruction

References

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