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A member asked:
Possible for a pulmonary function test rule out emphysema 100%?
3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Depends...: Emphysema is a form of copd. In copd, the pulmonary function test will show chronic, irreversible obstruction. However, early in the disease process, it is possible that the pfts will not show the obstruction yet. If it is thought that COPD is present and the tests are not abnormal, repeat the tests in 6-12 months. Meanwhile, quit smoking to decrease the chances of developing copd!
Answered 6/10/2014
5.7k views
Early on no: In fact emphysema might have a normal spirograph, a diffusion test (dlco) is usually abnormal even early in the disease, but both can be within normal limits. No test is perfect.
Answered 8/16/2013
5.7k views
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