Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) is a complete evaluation of the respiratory system
including patient history, physical examinations, chest x-ray examinations, arterial
blood gas analysis, and tests of pulmonary function. The primary purpose of pulmonary
function testing is to identify the severity of pulmonary impairment. Pulmonary
function testing has diagnostic and therapeutic roles and helps clinicians answer
some general questions about patients with lung disease. PFT's are normally performed
by a specialist technician.
Other indications
Chronic dyspnea
Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Restrictive lung disease
Preoperative testing
Impairment or disability
Chest X-Ray
Chest X-Ray (CXR) is the most commonly requested X-Ray in medicine and accounts for
50% of all X-Rays performed. It evaluates the lungs, heart and chest wall and can
detect medical conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, emphysema, lung
malignancy (cancer) and tuberculosis.
Chest X-Ray (CXR) is typically performed to:
Investigate symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic and persistent cough, chest pain, chest injury or fever
To monitor the progress of chronic medical conditions such as cancer or heart failure
As a screening test for employment, immigration or to join the defence force
Chest X-Ray (CXR) can determine:
Lung problems, including:
Air outside the lung (pneumothorax: with air in the pleural space)