Lung volumes

Lung volumes refer to the different volumes associated with different phases of the respiratory cycle. They are typically measured by spirometry, a common pulmonary function test. The lung volumes are divided into four main types: tidal volume (TV), inspiratory reserve volume (IRV), expiratory reserve volume (ERV), and residual volume (RV).

Tidal Volume (TV)

Tidal Volume (TV) is the amount of air inhaled or exhaled during normal breathing. It is approximately 500 mL in a healthy adult male.

Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV)

Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV) is the maximum amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal inhalation. It is approximately 3100 mL in a healthy adult male.

Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV)

Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV) is the maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a normal exhalation. It is approximately 1200 mL in a healthy adult male.

Residual Volume (RV)

Residual Volume (RV) is the amount of air remaining in the lungs after a maximal exhalation. It is approximately 1200 mL in a healthy adult male.

Lung Capacities

Lung capacities are derived from the sum of two or more lung volumes. The four lung capacities are: total lung capacity (TLC), vital capacity (VC), inspiratory capacity (IC), and functional residual capacity (FRC).

Total Lung Capacity (TLC)

Total Lung Capacity (TLC) is the maximum volume of air that the lungs can hold. It is the sum of TV, IRV, ERV, and RV.

Vital Capacity (VC)

Vital Capacity (VC) is the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inhalation. It is the sum of TV, IRV, and ERV.

Inspiratory Capacity (IC)

Inspiratory Capacity (IC) is the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal exhalation. It is the sum of TV and IRV.

Functional Residual Capacity (FRC)

Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) is the volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal exhalation. It is the sum of ERV and RV.

Lung volumes Resources
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