Term: PFT (Pulmonary Function Test)
Definition: Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) refers to a group of non-invasive tests that measure how well the lungs are working by assessing lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange.
Phonetic Pronunciation: (Pee-Eff-Tee)
Etymological Origin: The term "pulmonary" is derived from the Latin word pulmonarius, meaning "of the lungs," while "function" comes from the Latin functio, meaning "performance." The term "test" originates from the Latin testum, meaning "a vessel used in trials." Together, PFT describes tests that evaluate lung performance.
Significance in Asbestos Context: PFTs are crucial in the context of asbestos exposure as they help detect and monitor lung impairments caused by asbestos-related diseases, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. These tests can reveal restrictive lung patterns, reduced diffusing capacity, and other abnormalities associated with asbestos-induced lung damage. PFT results are often used in medical evaluations, legal cases, and compensation claims for individuals exposed to asbestos.
Synonyms or Related Terms: Lung function test, spirometry, respiratory function test, pulmonary assessment.
Example Sentence: "The PFT results showed a restrictive lung pattern, consistent with the patient's history of asbestos exposure and a diagnosis of asbestosis."
Common Misconceptions:
