Key tests used in the diagnosis and follow-up of emphysema

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs)
These tests measure the amount of air the lungs can hold and the flow of air in and out of the lungs. PFTs consist of blowing air in several different ways into a variety of special devices. Patients treated at the Hospital Moinhos de Vento Emphysema Treatment Group will have these tests done at the PNEUMO Breathing Laboratory, which is conveniently located within the Hospital itself. More information about these tests is available at the PNEUMO website.

Arterial blood gas (ABGs)
Measures the transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide by the lungs.

Chest X-ray
This simple test is very useful in monitoring patients with lung conditions. In the assessment of emphysema, X-rays are supplemented by chest CT (see below).

Lung CT
Provides a detailed picture of the lung, which is essential for proper diagnosis of emphysema.

CT scanning is one of the most important tests performed at the Hospital Moinhos de Vento Emphysema Treatment Group. Our CT scanner (the device that produces images for the test) is specially adjusted to allow analysis of images with a unique, state-of-the-art software program not available at any other Brazilian facility. This allows extremely accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.