Pneumoconiosis Testing | How is Pneumoconiosis Diagnosed?

This information was reviewed and approved by Maura Robinson (5/1/2012).

Several tests are commonly used in the diagnosis and monitoring of pneumoconiosis.

A detailed medical, occupational and environmental history and physical examination are always required.
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are measured to determine the percentage of lung capacity and function that may have been lost due to scarring.
Measurement of arterial blood gases (ABGs) are used to determine if the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the alveoli is impaired.
Imaging procedures, such as chest X-rays and CT scans, are used to visualize the nodules and scarring in the lungs. Physicians trained as B-readers may review the chest X-ray in order to classify the nodules or scars by their distribution, size and shape.

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