Interpreting PFT results involves comparing the patient's results to standard values based on age, sex, height, and ethnicity. In toxicology, deviations from these norms can indicate the extent and type of lung damage caused by toxic exposure. For instance:
Reduced Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): May indicate restrictive lung disease, often seen with chronic exposure to [fibrogenic dusts]() like asbestos. Reduced Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1): Commonly associated with obstructive lung diseases such as COPD, which can be caused by long-term exposure to [cigarette smoke]() or industrial pollutants. Reduced Diffusion Capacity: Suggests issues with gas exchange, which can be seen in conditions like [interstitial lung disease]() due to exposure to toxic gases.
