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Alternative names Return to top
Diffusing capacity; Diffusion capacity; DLCO testDefinition Return to top
Lung diffusion testing is used to determine how well oxygen passes from the air sacs of the lungs into the blood.How the test is performed Return to top
You inhale a single breath from a volume of gas containing a known small quantity of carbon monoxide, hold your breath for 10 seconds, then rapidly exhale. The exhaled gas is then analyzed to determine the amount of carbon monoxide that was absorbed during the breath.How to prepare for the test Return to top
Do not eat a heavy meal before the test. Do not smoke for at least 4 to 6 hours prior to the test. Specific instructions will be given if bronchodilators or inhaler medications should not be used before the test.How the test will feel Return to top
There is a tight fitting mouth piece to breathe through, and nose clips are applied.Why the test is performed Return to top
The test is performed to determine the presence and extent of certain lung diseases that affect how well gases cross from the air sacs into the bloodstream.Normal Values Return to top
This test is usually reported as the percent of predicted amount of carbon monoxide inhaled that should be absorbed, according to the age, sex, and height of the person.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Abnormal results generally indicate that gases do not diffuse normally across lung membranes. This may indicate that certain lung diseases are present. Some of these diseases are diffuse interstitial fibrosis, sarcoidosis, asbestosis, and emphysema.What the risks are Return to top
There are no significant risks.Special considerations Return to top
Other pulmonary function tests may be done in combination with this test. Update Date: 10/22/2003 Updated by: Allen J. Blaivas, D.O., Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University Hospital, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |