Diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide

Diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (often abbreviated as DLCO) is a measure that determines how much oxygen travels from the alveoli of the lungs to the bloodstream. It is an index of the surface area available for gas exchange.

It becomes decreased in situations such as

• emphysema
• alveolar inflammation
• pulmonary fibrosis

Increased levels are sometimes associated with

• large lung volumes
• obesity
• asthma

See also

• carbon monoxide transfer coefficient