When would you use DLCO testing?
Diffusion capacity testing (DLCO) is best used to pinpoint the type of respiratory disease. It is completed after spirometry when an obstruction or lung volume issues are predetermined.
- Differentiating emphysema from obstructive bronchitis and chronic asthma
- Assessment of COPD
- Detection of pulmonary vascular disease
- Assessment of shortness of breath (SOB)
- Disability/Impairment evaluations for ILD or COPD