Comparative Analysis of Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) In Athletes: Diagnostic and Clinical Relevance

Abstract

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) play a critical role in assessing lung health and performance, particularly in athletes exposed to unique respiratory challenges due to intense training and environmental stressors. This review synthesizes recent findings on the application of PFTs in athletic populations. It highlights variations in test outcomes based on sport type, gender, training intensity, and environmental exposure. Furthermore, it explores how PFTs aid in diagnosing exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), asthma, and other respiratory conditions, while discussing emerging diagnostic tools such as specific airway conductance (SGaw), eucapnic voluntary hyperpnoea (EVH), and oscillometry. The paper also outlines clinical implications including treatment monitoring, athlete screening, and antidoping compliance. Collectively, the findings reinforce the value of PFTs in enhancing respiratory care and optimizing athletic performance.