Pulmonary function testing (pft)

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Pulmonary function tests measure the lungs capacity to hold air, to move air in and out, and to absorb oxygen.
Pulmonary function tests are better at detecting the general type and severity of lung disorder than at defining the specific cause of problems; however, these tests can be used to diagnose some specific disorders, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
(See also Medical History and Physical Examination for Lung Disorders and Respiratory System.)