COPD & Emphysema Diagnostic Tests
Accurate testing for COPD
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Expert Lung Function Tests for Chronic Lung Disease
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) offers the full range of diagnostic tests for COPD and emphysema. The most common lung function test is spirometry. This test can often help lung specialists check for COPD before you ever begin to experience symptoms.
Blood Tests
Lungs bring oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide. Blood tests measure levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide to determine if the lungs are working properly. Doctors may also order blood tests to:
- Assess nicotine levels.
- Check levels of the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) protein.
People with low levels of AAT are at risk for lung diseases such as emphysema.
Chest X-Ray & CT Scan
Your doctor may order X-Rays or CT scans. They can use these detailed images to:
- Diagnose lung disease.
- Rule out heart failure or other lung problems.
Your doctor can also use a CT scan to help determine:
- How widespread COPD is.
- If you may benefit from a procedure, such as a lung volume reduction procedure.
These diagnostic procedures are essential to helping your doctor diagnose COPD and other lung conditions. During these tests, we use the lowest, safest levels of radiation possible.
Other Diagnostic Tests
Depending on your testing needs, your doctor may also order:
- Cardiopulmonary exercise testing: This test is completed on a bike or treadmill to assess how well the heart and lungs work together.
- Echocardiogram: This is an ultrasound test to check heart structure and function.
- Sleep study: This test measures COPD-related sleep disturbances.
Multidisciplinary Case Conferences
Specialists in our COPD Clinic review test results in a team case conference. Then they create an individualized treatment plan together. The conference includes specialists from many disciplines:
- General pulmonology
- Interventional pulmonology
- Thoracic (chest) surgery
- Thoracic radiology
- Palliative (comfort) care
- Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
Our team approach brings together different specialists to ensure precise diagnosis, treatment and well-coordinated care.
