Diaphragmatic paralysis laboratory findings
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mahda Alihashemi M.D. [2] [3]
Overview
Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of diaphragmatic paralysis include reduced oxygen saturation in the supine position in unilateral and bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis and elevated the arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis. Hypoxemia may be seen in arterial blood gas in bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.
Laboratory Findings
- Complete blood count is usually done to rule out anemia as a cause of dyspnea.
- Thyroid tests are usually done because thyroid disease is usually associated with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.
- Laboratory findings consistent with the diagnosis of diaphragmatic paralysis include:[1]
- Reduced oxygen saturation in the supine position in unilateral and bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.
- Elevated arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.
- Hypoxemia may be seen in arterial blood gas in bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.
- P(A-a) O2 gradients may be normal if the cause of diaphragmatic paralysis is not related to underlying parenchymal lung disease.
- Based on the causes of diaphragmatic paralysis, more laboratory tests may be needed.
References
- ↑ Martinez FJ, Strawderman RL, Flaherty KR, Cowan M, Orens JB, Wald J (August 1999). “Respiratory response during arm elevation in isolated diaphragm weakness”. Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 160 (2): 480–6. doi:10.1164/ajrccm.160.2.9608096. PMID 10430717.
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