- Next to T. B. Hospital Main Gate, Koch’s House, Jerbai Wadia Road, Sewri
DLCO (Diffusing Capacity of the Lungs for Carbon Monoxide)
What is DLCO?
Understanding DLCO Testing
DLCO (Diffusion Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide) is a simple, non- invasive pulmonary function test essential for diagnosing & managing interstitial lung disease, COPD and pulmonary vascular conditions.
DLCO measures how well gases like oxygen diffuse across the alveolar-capillary membrane. It uses a low-concentration CO gas in a single-breath maneuver & evaluates the rate of gas transfer from lungs to blood.
Key Concepts:
- Haemoglobin binding to carbon monoxide
- Single breath test
- Gas exchange impairment in diseases
Why DLCO Matters in the Indian Clinical Setting
India has rising prevalance of ILD’s, post-tuberculosis lung disorders and post-COVID lung fibrosis. DLCO is especially valuable for respiratory physicians in Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities lacking HRCT access. Growing use in pre-operative assessments, smokers and occupational lung disease surveillance.
Insert Flowchart: Patient Referral > Pre-Test > DLCO Test > Report
DLCO Usage in India:
● 45% ILD diagnosis
● 30% COPD evaluation
● 15% Post-COVID fibrosis monitoring
● 10% Pre-surgical risk assessment
NOTE: Always correct for haemoglobin levels & adjust for altitude.
How to interpret DLCO Values
NOTE: Always correct for haemoglobin levels & adjust for altitude.
Advantages over Spirometery alone:
- Detects early lung impairement before FEV1 falls
- Monitors disease progression or response to therapy
- Adds diagnostic value in mixed ventilatory defects