TLC and RV

[Annieosb]

Hi Can anyone tell me what a TLC of 126% predicted and RV of 175% predicted means, I have called BLF and nurse not available, cant get doctors appt till 2 weeks time........just wish there was a way that we could get layman's explanations for out illness

[Katinka46]

TLC is total lung capacity, which in you case is larger than normal somewhat.RV is residual volume which is what is left in your lungs after you have fully exhaled. Yours is considerably high. Anything over 125% is considered abnormal.

What is your condition, or are still waiting for a diagnosis?

These figures are what would be found in someone with significant air-trapping.

Are you seeing a respiratory consultant or your GP?

All the best

Kate

[Annieosb in reply to Katinka46]

Thank you Katinka,

Yes but GP chocolate teapot!1

Will speak to my consultant ASAP and see what the CT scan reveals

Ax

[Annieosb in reply to Katinka46]

Hi Kate,

Just wondered how to get information about TLC and RV, my GP is not too sure and my Consultant is on holiday. Have searched the internet, but been unable to find ranges. Any ideas?

Thanks again

Annie

[Katinka46 in reply to Annieosb]

Hello Annie

A full pulmonary function test (PFT) consists of three parts: first Spirometry, which can be done at most GP practices; second, a series of tests that look at gas exchange, I.e. how well the lungs process air, and get oxygen into the system; and finally how large the lungs are and how much air is left after full expiration. If you look up interpreting Pulmonary Function Test you will find articles and papers on how to understand the numbers that emerge from the computer. On this forum because so many members have COPD there is a big emphasis on the Spirometry section and the FEV1 which is taken as a kind of basic lung function. But some lung diseases can have a normal FEV1. e.g. Restrictive lung diseases. So it all needs to be handled with caution and take all queries to a respiratory consultant.

I have had to find out for myself because the two conditions in my lungs are rare and no one has come across this combination.

All the best

Kate x

[Annieosb in reply to Katinka46]

Thank you so much Kate for the useful and helpful information. I know it is the specialist I need to talk with but it is difficult to get to them.

You must have a wealth of knowledge, especially as you have such rare conditions. Wish you well in your handling of these.

I am just beginning to realise that 'physician heal thyself' really does have to be. I have a son with schizophrenia (20 years now) and after the treatment (or lack of, nhs and seriously mentally ill have been thrown to the wolves!) I find that I have become an expert in his condition.

I am sure that this is what you are now about your conditions.

Thank you so very much for your extremely helpful information.

All the best

Annie x

[Katinka46]

Sorry, I have just looked back at your posts. And see that you have COPD. I should have checked before replying.

[soulsaver]

Lung capacity in Spirometry is FVC and VC.

TLCo is transfer lung (factor) carbon monoxide.

[Annieosb in reply to soulsaver]

Thank you for your answer, but it still keeps me in the dark

A

[Hidden]

Hello Annie

Your residual volume is high..I had 140% last time and mine was considered as moderate. It means you have old trapped air in your lungs. I wouldn’t hang around in seeing a respiratory specialist.

Wishing you better days xx

[Annieosb in reply to Hidden]

Thank you Happylondon. This information was contained in a letter from my Consultant to my GP. Still waiting to get result of CT to see where this progresses.

A

[Hidden in reply to Annieosb]

Hi Annie

Ok CT scan will give you the answer I expect.

If you are feeling over breathless the RV may be the reason why.

Are you feeling congested at all, with mucus etc?

You have to push for an earlier doctor’s appointment. But I suppose you need the CT scan results.

Try Asthma UK helpline is BLF isn’t anwering.

In the meantime use your action plan, your reliever/nebs if you have one/some and your emergency oral steroids if you have some and are feeling breathless. I don’t know if you are on O2 I haven’t read back.

Basically bronchodilators such as relievers will help to open the bronchi and your oral steroids will calm down the inflammation so the air pressure lessens.

You would know if you have an infection and you are coughing badly etc and nasty looking mucus..then use your emergency antibiotics.

Worst case scenario go to A&E.

Take good care of yourself x

Fran

[Annieosb in reply to Hidden]

Wow Fran, you seem to know your stuff! I am breathless but manage it well. Not much on the mucus front, never has been.

Spoke to the BLF nurse yesterday and is of the opinion that CT scan results need to be had, but reassured me and said that I can call her anytime.

Don't think I have infection, and managing ok with the usual symptoms and tiredness.

Will contact the Consultant on Tuesday, I attend Whythenshaw in Manchester as a result of aspergillus antibodies in my blood detected....they are a great respiratory department.

Many thanks for all your, help support and information.

Regards

Annie