Which test measures the capacity of the lungs and the volume of air during inhalation and exhalation?

• A. Pulmonary Angiography
• B. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)
• C. Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes) RBC
• D. Skin Biopsy

Answer: (B)

Measuring how much air the lungs can hold and how that air moves in and out is the job of pulmonary function assessment. This set of tests, led by spirometry, records the amount of air you breathe out and the speed of your breath. From these measurements you can determine lung volumes and capacities, such as the total amount the lungs can contain and the maximum amount you can exhale after a deep breath, as well as the volume remaining after a normal exhale. Inhalation and exhalation volumes are directly captured and analyzed to assess overall lung function. The other options perform different tasks: imaging blood vessels in the lungs, counting red blood cells, or sampling skin tissue.