Lung function testing in COPD : when everything is not so simple

What is it about?

This case report shows the limitations of a simplistic approach to lung function testing in the diagnosis of smoking-related diseases.

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Why is it important?

Cigarette smoking and, to a lesser extent, the exposure to fibrogenic dust may cause a wide spectrum of pulmonary injuries with differing effects on lung function. The latter could be revealed by comprehensive physiological studies including pulmonary diffusion of gases rather than simple spirometry.

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