Pulmonary Function Tests

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), also known as spirometry tests, measure the functions of the lungs. These tests can diagnose lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema or determine the cause of lung-related symptoms. The airflow in and out of the lungs is measured by breathing into an instrument called a spirometer which records the amount and rate of air. These measurements are recorded under a number of different conditions to detect any lung abnormalities.