Interpreting pulmonary function tests: recognize the pattern, and the diagnosis will follow.
When interpreting pulmonary function tests, one should first try to determine the pattern of abnormality: is it obstructive, restrictive, or normal? Pulmonary function tests cannot by themselves distinguish among the potential causes of abnormalities, and must be interpreted in light of the patient's history, physical examination, and ancillary studies. Once a pattern is recognized, the diagnosis will often follow.
Al-Ashkar
Feyrouz
F
Department of General Internal Medicine, The Cleveland Clinic, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195, USA.
Mehra
Reena
R
Mazzone
Peter J
PJ
D000368:Aged; D000465:Algorithms; D005260:Female; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011653:Pulmonary Diffusing Capacity; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests; D013147:Spirometry; D014109:Total Lung Capacity; D014797:Vital Capacity