Lung Function Tests
 

Total Lung Capacity

 
 
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On this page:Increased Total Lung CapacityReduced Total Lung Capacity

Overview

  • The total lung capacity refers to the volume of air within the lungs after a maximal inspiration.

      • Normal Range

      • 80 - 120% predicted

Increased Total Lung Capacity

  • Increased TLC (>120% predicted) indicates hyperinflation.

    • Causes of Increased Total Lung Capacity

    • Emphysema
    • Asthma
    • Acromegaly
    • Athletes

Reduced Total Lung Capacity

  • Reduced TLC (<80% predicted) indicates restrictive disease.

    • Causes of Reduced Total Lung Capacity

    • Parenchymal disease - pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, atelectasis
    • Pleural disease - pleural effusion, pneumothorax
    • Chest wall deformity - kyphosis, scoliosis, morbid obesity
    • Neurologic / neuromuscular / muscular disorder - motor neurone disease, Guillain-Barre, muscular dystrophy, myaesthenia gravis
 
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