Emphysema
Diagnosis

In making a diagnosis of emphysema, your doctor will start by conducting a thorough medical examination, recording your medical history and asking about any symptoms you are experiencing.

The following tests may then be conducted to make a definite diagnosis:

• Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) — This test involves a series of breathing maneuvers that measure the airflow and volume of air in your lungs. This allows your doctor to objectively assess the function of your lungs.
• High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) — This is a special type of CT scan that provides your doctor with high-resolution images of your lungs. Having a HRCT is no different than having a regular CT scan; they both are performed on an open-air table and take only a few minutes.
• Chest X-Ray — Chest X-rays can help confirm a diagnosis of emphysema and rule out other lung conditions.
• Arterial Blood Gases Analysis — These blood tests measure how well your lungs transfer oxygen to your bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide.
• Sputum Examination — Analysis of cells in your sputum can help determine the cause of some lung problems.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.

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