Pulmonary Function Tests and Respiratory Illnesses

Flashcards for Pulmonary Function Tests and Respiratory Illnesses

Spirometry

A method to measure lung volumes using a floating drum, air, and recording on advancing paper called a spirogram.

Vital Capacity

The total volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximal inhalation.

Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV)

The additional volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal inspiration.

Tidal Volume (V_T)

The volume of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing.

Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV)

The additional volume of air that can be exhaled after a normal exhalation.

Residual Volume

The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal exhalation.

Functional Residual Capacity (FRC)

The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal exhalation (ERV + Residual Volume).

Total Lung Capacity (TLC)

The total volume of air the lungs can hold (VC + Residual Volume).

Peak Flow Meter

A device used to measure the maximum rate at which a person can exhale air from their lungs.

Airflow

Dependent on pressure gradient (P) and airway resistance (R); F µ P/R.

Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1.0)

The volume of air forcefully exhaled in one second.

FEV1.0/VC ratio

Should be relatively independent of age, gender, build.

Obstructive Lung Disorder

Characterized by reduced airflow due to something obstructing the airways.

Restrictive Lung Disorder

Characterized by reduced lung volume due to something preventing normal lung expansion.

Asthma

An obstructive lung disease.

Fibrosis

A restrictive lung disease where compliance and elasticity fall, and gas exchange is reduced, but FEV1:VC ratio is usually normal(ish).