Diagnosis

Diagnosis

There is no single test that can confirm pulmonary fibrosis. It often takes time and several different tests to make a diagnosis. The items listed below are some of the steps and tests that will help your doctor make the right diagnosis for you. 

Medical history  

Your healthcare provider will ask questions about: 

  • Your symptoms (such as shortness of breath or a dry cough) 
  • Your work history (for example, exposure to dust, chemicals, or farming materials) 
  • Smoking history 
  • Family history of lung disease 
  • Other medical conditions 

Being open and detailed in your answers helps your provider make the right diagnosis. 

Physical exam  

A physical examination is a common test to start with. Your healthcare provider will check for any visible signs and symptoms that could indicate pulmonary fibrosis. 

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT’s) 

Pulmonary Function Tests (also called “breathing tests”) measure: 

  • How much air you can breathe in and out 
  • How quickly you can move air 
  • How well oxygen moves from your lungs into your bloodstream 
  • These tests help show how well your lungs are functioning. 
  • Learn more at: Breathing Tests | Lung Saskatchewan 

6-minute walk test (6MWT) 

This test measures: 

  • How far you can walk in six minutes 
  • Your oxygen levels during activity 
  • How short of breath you feel 
  • Shortness of breath during activity is often one of the first symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis. 

Blood Tests  

Blood tests cannot confirm pulmonary fibrosis. However, they can help: 

  • Rule out other diseases 
  • Identify autoimmune conditions that may affect the lungs 

Chest Radiography (x-ray)  

A chest X-ray uses small amounts of radiation to create pictures of your chest. It can: 

  • Show changes in your lungs 
  • Help rule out other lung conditions 
  • However, a chest X-ray may not always show early pulmonary fibrosis clearly. 

High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT)  

A High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) scan (sometimes called a CT or CAT scan) provides detailed images of your lungs. 

This is one of the most important tests for diagnosing pulmonary fibrosis. It allows doctors to see scarring or damage in the lung tissue more clearly than a standard X-ray. 

Oxygen testing: pulse oximetry or ABG 

  • Pulse Oximetry (Finger Probe Test) 

This is a simple, painless test that continuously measures how much oxygen is in your blood (oxygen saturation). A small clip, called a probe, is placed on your finger to quickly check your oxygen levels. 

Low oxygen levels do not confirm pulmonary fibrosis, but they can help your healthcare provider understand - how much oxygen is being carried in your blood and whether further testing is needed. 

If you would like more information about oxygen testing or oxygen funding in Saskatchewan, speak with your healthcare provider or visit our Lung Health Materials page to access the Home Oxygen Brochure. 

  • Arterial Blood Gases (ABG’s)  

An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood. A small blood sample is taken with a needle poke from an artery, usually in your wrist. 

This test provides a more detailed snapshot of information than a finger probe and helps healthcare providers better understand how well your lungs are exchanging gases. 

Bronchoscopy  

During a bronchoscopy: 

  • A thin, flexible tube is passed through your nose or mouth 
  • The doctor looks at your airways 
  • Small samples may be taken for testing 
  • This helps rule out other causes of lung problems. 
  • To find out more, visit this link: Bronchoscopy | Lung Saskatchewan 

Lung Biopsy 

In some cases, a procedure called a lung biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. A small piece of lung tissue is removed examined under a microscope either through an incision, during a bronchoscopy, or with a needle. This is usually only done if other tests do not provide clear answers.