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Lung function tests

Authoring team

Lung function tests are used for the following reasons:

  • to diagnose respiratory impairment
  • to quantify the severity of any impairment

There are four functional divisions of the respiratory system which can be analysed by pulmonary function tests:

  • airways:
    • diseases of the airways may increase resistance to air flow

  • alveoli:
    • diseases of the alveoli reduce gas exchange

  • thoracic wall - the respiratory pump:
    • including the ribs, muscles of respiration, diaphragm

  • neurological control system:
    • the depth and rate of breathing is determined in the brain

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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