Volumetric capnography: abilities in practical pulmonology

The aim of this review was to analyze abilities of a novel diagnostic method intended to measure the lung function. Volumetric capnography is one of the most promising tools for assessing pulmonary function. This method reflects CO₂ elimination pattern at the exhaled air volume. Changes in CO₂ portion at the tidal volume are related to the integrated evaluation of the respiratory function and could be expressed as the following parameters: emphysema index, the dead space volume, phases 2 and 3 slopes, etc. Possible use of the volumetric capnography for diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, emphysema, and other respiratory diseases is discussed in the article. This method is simple, non-invasive, and safe. Diagnostic value of the volumetric capnography needs further investigation in order to implement this method in clinical practice.

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