Making Sense of Lung Function Tests

Respiratory problems are the commonest cause of acute admission to hospital. A variety of diagnostic investigations are required, both for acute and clinic assessment. Making Sense of Lung Function Tests, Second Edition familiarises both trainees and more experienced clinicians with the interpretation of a range of respiratory parameters. It places lung function in a clinical context using real-life examples and provides invaluable hands-on guidance.

For this second edition Consultant Respiratory Physician Jonathan Dakin and Consultant Anaesthetist Elena Kourteli are joined by Mark Mottershaw, Chief Respiratory Physiologist from Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth, all contributing a broad range of expertise and perspectives. Together they have updated the book throughout and added new chapters including an algorithm for interpretation of pulmonary function tests, exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing.

The text offers a clear explanation of the concepts which students find difficult, including:

    The basis of obstructive and restrictive defects

    Pattern recognition of the flow volume loop

    Differences between TLCO and KCO

    Assessment of oxygenation using PO2 and SO2

    The basis of Type 1 and type 2 respiratory failure

    Distinguishing respiratory and metabolic acidosis

    The relationship between sleep and respiratory failure

The information is presented in an accessible way, suitable for any who seek only a grounding in spirometry or blood gases, but also sufficiently comprehensive for those completing specialist training in general or respiratory medicine.

Features

    Pocket-sized format of commonly performed tests of respiratory function for easy reference in the clinical setting
    Uses succinct text that is ideal for the non-specialist to improve their knowledge and gain confidence
    Emphasizes clinical interpretation rather than physiological or biochemical principles
    Provides succinct coverage of key physiological information highlighted for rapid reference
    Includes frequently asked questions with answers ideal for the trainee

Table of Contents

Tests of airway function and mechanical properties. Blood gas interpretation. Exercise testing. Interpretation