Spirometry
Spirometry is a test that measures lung function. It's used to diagnose and monitor lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The procedure involves breathing into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometry machine. The machine measures the amount of air breathed in and out over time, as well as the volume of each breath.
One key parameter is the maximum amount of air breathed out in one second, which is called the forced expiratory volume (FEV1).
The articles below explain how spirometry is used to measure pulmonary airflow, lung volumes, and lung capacities. Learn more about the respiratory system.
Introduction to Spirometers & Lung Diseases
Spirometry is one of the primary Pulmonary Funtion Tests (PFT) used to check the health of the lungs and respiratory passageways. When a spirometry test is performed, the subject breathes through an mechanical or electronic airflow sensor called a spirometer. A recording of a subject’s airflow is referred to as a spirogram.
Lung Volumes and Capacities
The amount of air in the lungs can be subdivided into four (4) volumes and four (4) capacities. The four volumes include tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, expiratory reserve volume and residual volume. The four capacities include inspiratory capacity, functional reserve capacity, vital capacity, and total lung capacity.
Spirometry: pulmonary function test
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC or FVC6) and Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) are two pulmonary function tests that determine the health of the respiratory airways and lung tissues.