Total Lung Capacity
Total Lung Capacity (TLC) is the maximum amount of air that the lungs can hold. It is a crucial measure of lung health and function, reflecting the volume of air available for gas exchange. TLC is typically measured in liters and can vary based on factors such as age, sex, body size, and overall health.
TLC is composed of several components, including tidal volume, inspiratory reserve volume, expiratory reserve volume, and residual volume. Understanding TLC helps healthcare professionals assess respiratory conditions and monitor lung function in patients with diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).