Decreased DLCO

What it means

Reduced ability of the lungs to transfer gas from inspired air to the bloodstream as measured by the diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) test.

DLCO is decreased in any condition which affects the effective alveolar surface area

Rare diseases that can present with this9

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Decreased diffusing capacity