01/20/2026
Pulmonary emphysema results from the destruction of the air sacs, or alveoli, of the lungs. Since these tiny structures cannot be directly visualized by physical examination, healthcare providers rely on the measurements from a series of tests to help them diagnose and evaluate the severity of this and other pulmonary conditions. These measurements include imaging tests of the lungs, pulmonary function testing (PFTs), and laboratory testing (blood tests).
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