Which test is commonly used in asbestos medical surveillance to assess lung function?

• A. Pulmonary Function Test
• B. Electrocardiogram
• C. Endoscopy
• D. Audiometry

Answer: (A)

Pulmonary Function Testing is used to assess lung function in asbestos medical surveillance. Exposure to asbestos can cause fibrotic changes and restrictive impairment, and sometimes airway obstruction, so measuring how the lungs work helps detect early changes and track progression. A PFT typically includes spirometry to get numbers like FEV1, FVC, and the FEV1/FVC ratio, plus lung volumes and DLCO to assess gas exchange. Baseline tests establish a reference, and periodic PFTs monitor for decline over time to guide management and work decisions. The other options don’t assess lung function: an electrocardiogram checks heart activity, endoscopy visually examines airways or the digestive tract, and audiometry tests hearing.