What does DLCO mean on PFT?

diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide
DEFINITIONS. ● DLCO – The diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is also known as the transfer factor for carbon monoxide or TLCO. It is a measure of the conductance of gas transfer from inspired gas to the red blood cells. ●

What does a high DLCO mean?

The majority of patients (62%) with a high DLCO had a diagnosis of obesity, asthma, or both. Polycythemia, hemoptysis, and left-to-right shunt were uncommon. Conclusion: A high DLCO on a PFT is most frequently associated with large lung volumes, obesity, and asthma. Other conditions are much less common.

What is the normal DLCO in a PFT?

Normal and Critical Findings Normal DLCO: >75% of predicted, up to 140% Mild: 60% to LLN (lower limit of normal) Moderate: 40% to 60% Severe: <40%

What does DLCO indicate?

Spirometry is the most common and widely used lung function test, followed by diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO). It is also known as the transfer factor. [1] DLCO is a measurement to assess the lungs’ ability to transfer gas from inspired air to the bloodstream.

What conditions increase DLCO?

Asthma, obesity, and less commonly polycythemia, congestive heart failure, pregnancy, atrial septal defect, and hemoptysis or pulmonary hemorrhage can increase Dlco above the normal range. A reduced Dlco also can accompany drug-induced lung diseases.

What does a decline in DLCO indicate?

A decreased DL CO can indicate a thickening or disturbance of the alveolar epithelial-endothelial barrier.

What is DLCO lung test?

DLCO Test. INTRODUCTION. A test of the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is one of the most clinically valuable tests of lung function. Diffusing capacity (also known as transfer factor) is measured using small volumes of carbon monoxide (CO) and measures the transfer of CO across the alveolar-capillary membrane.

What is DLCO in spirometry?

DLCO or TLCO ( diffusing capacity or t ransfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide (CO),) is the extent to which oxygen passes from the air sacs of the lungs into the blood. Commonly, it refers to the test used to determine this parameter. It was introduced in 1909.