my test results

  Here are my numbers

August 2006
Spirometry..post bronchodilator FVC 50% of predicted. FEV1 pf 57% of predicted (1.80 and 1.52 respectively), ratio of 84%. Total lung capacity of 4.13 liters. 78% of predicted and residual volume of 123% at 2.44 liters. Diffusion rate 32% of predicted, adjusted for hemoglobin. Flow volume showed a restrictive contour. Moderate to severe restrictive defect with severe reduction in diffusion capacity.


April 2007
PFt showed FVC 1.72 liters 52% of predicted, FEV1 of 1.11 liters 42% OF predicted. TLC OF 3.12 LITERS,59% of predicted, RV of 1.40 or 70% of predicted. Diffusion capacity 33%. Flow volume showed a restrictive contour.


  CT of chest shows extensive fibrosis, predominantly peripherally as well as the lower lobes with also some evidence of honeycombing in the lower lobes bilaterally, Right heart does not appear to be enlarged. There does not appear to be any lymphadenopathy.


I was put on O2 24/7 at 2 liters.......in April of 2007. I just got this report from a pulmonologist who we went to for a second opinion. He has referred me to Shands to discuss transplant and my file is in their office right now to see if I might be a candidate.


Can someone please put it into English for me as to what this means. I pop in here once in while and I am learning, but I know I learn slowly and have quite a ways to go.

Thanks,
Kathy

[National Jewish Health]

The pulmonary function tests and the CT scan are consistent with the diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), commonly called lung scarring of unknown cause.  This disease reduces the volume of the lungs, makes them stiff and reduces their ability to supply oxygen to your blood and tissues.  It is a progressively worsening disease.  The current pharmacologic treatment of this condition is generally unsatisfactory but lung transplantation is a viable option.  Please read our interstitial and fibrotic lung disease information at http://www.nationaljewish.org/disease-info/diseases/rheum/ild/index.aspx to learn more.

In addition, there are ongoing clinical studies of pulmonary fibrosis at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) http://www.nih.gov/ and other academic medical centers.  You should ask your pulmonary specialist about these studies.

This is a difficult illness to live with.  We hope you are accepted into the transplant program.  Good luck.