Bronchodilation Test in Palamós

What Is the Bronchodilation Test?

The bronchodilation test, also known as the bronchodilator test, is a respiratory function test that consists of performing a spirometry before and after the administration of a bronchodilator drug (usually salbutamol). The aim is to assess whether the bronchial obstruction is reversible, which is key information for the differential diagnosis between asthma and COPD.

How Is It Performed?

First Spirometry (Baseline)

An initial forced spirometry is performed to measure baseline lung volumes and flows. The patient blows out with maximum effort through a spirometer to record the FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in the first second) and the FVC (forced vital capacity).

Administration of the Bronchodilator

An inhaled bronchodilator drug is administered (400 micrograms of salbutamol) and a wait of 15 to 20 minutes follows so that it takes effect.

Second Spirometry (Post-bronchodilator)

The spirometry is repeated to compare the results with the baseline values. If the FEV1 improves by 12% or more and by at least 200 ml, the test is considered positive (reversible obstruction), pointing the diagnosis towards asthma.

Indications

The bronchodilation test is indicated in patients with suspected bronchial asthma, for the differential diagnosis between asthma and COPD, the assessment of the severity of bronchial obstruction, the monitoring of asthmatic patients and the evaluation of the response to bronchodilator treatment.

Preparation

It is recommended not to smoke for at least 4 hours before the test, to avoid short-acting bronchodilators for 6 hours and long-acting ones for 12 hours beforehand (following medical advice), not to do intense physical exercise and to wear comfortable clothing.