How to Read a Pulmonary Function Test?

Check patient demographics and test quality

Review the flow-volume loop

Look at FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio

Determine if the pattern is obstructive, restrictive, or mixed

Assess bronchodilator response

Review lung volumes if available

Check diffusion capacity (DLCO) if available

Compare results to predicted values and lower limit of normal

Grade severity if abnormal

Correlate findings with symptoms and clinical context

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