What is the key function of the DLCO test in pulmonary assessment?

What is the key function of the DLCO test in pulmonary assessment?

• A. To measure lung capacity
• B. To evaluate the transfer of gas from alveoli to blood
• C. To assess airway resistance
• D. To analyze blood pH levels

Answer: (B)

The DLCO test, which stands for diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide, is primarily utilized to evaluate how well gas transfers from the alveoli in the lungs into the bloodstream. In this test, a patient inhales a small amount of carbon monoxide (a gas that normally would not be found in significant amounts in the body) and then exhales. The amount of carbon monoxide that is present in the exhaled air is measured to determine how effectively the lungs are allowing this gas to diffuse into the blood. This measurement is significant because it provides insights into the health of the alveolar-capillary membrane, where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs. Abnormal results can indicate various pulmonary conditions, such as interstitial lung disease, emphysema, or pulmonary hypertension, which can impact the lungs' ability to facilitate gas exchange effectively. Thus, the key function of the DLCO test is to evaluate the transfer of gas from alveoli to blood, making option B the correct choice. The other functions described in the other answer choices, such as measuring lung capacity, assessing airway resistance, or analyzing blood pH levels, pertain to different pulmonary function tests and do not reflect the primary purpose of the DLCO test.

The DLCO test, which stands for diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide, is primarily utilized to evaluate how well gas transfers from the alveoli in the lungs into the bloodstream. In this test, a patient inhales a small amount of carbon monoxide (a gas that normally would not be found in significant amounts in the body) and then exhales. The amount of carbon monoxide that is present in the exhaled air is measured to determine how effectively the lungs are allowing this gas to diffuse into the blood.

This measurement is significant because it provides insights into the health of the alveolar-capillary membrane, where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs. Abnormal results can indicate various pulmonary conditions, such as interstitial lung disease, emphysema, or pulmonary hypertension, which can impact the lungs' ability to facilitate gas exchange effectively. Thus, the key function of the DLCO test is to evaluate the transfer of gas from alveoli to blood, making option B the correct choice. The other functions described in the other answer choices, such as measuring lung capacity, assessing airway resistance, or analyzing blood pH levels, pertain to different pulmonary function tests and do not reflect the primary purpose of the DLCO test.