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Updated: Aug 1, 2026

Phenotyping Mouse Pulmonary Function In Vivo with the Lung Diffusing Capacity
Published on: January 6, 2015
Single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity
R O Crapo1, R L Jensen, J S Wanger
1University of Utah School of Medicine, Pulmonary Division, LDS Hospital, Salt Lake City, USA. ldrcrapo@ihc.com
Measuring the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is vital for assessing lung gas transfer. Careful control of variations is essential for accurate interpretation of DLCO results.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary physiology
- Respiratory medicine
Background:
- Diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is a key clinical measure.
- Accurate interpretation of DLCO requires understanding potential variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the clinical utility of DLCO measurements.
- To emphasize the importance of controlling variability in DLCO testing.
Main Methods:
- Review of established protocols for DLCO measurement.
- Analysis of factors contributing to variability in DLCO results.
Main Results:
- DLCO is a clinically valuable tool for assessing lung function.
- Several sources of variation can impact DLCO measurements.
Conclusions:
- Vigilance in controlling measurement variables is crucial.
- Awareness of remaining variations is necessary for accurate clinical interpretation of DLCO.
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