cardiopulmonary exercise testing
Pronunciation: SEE-pet
Also written as: CPET — Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
A comprehensive assessment that measures cardiac, pulmonary, and metabolic responses to graded exercise.
Full Definition
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is a sophisticated diagnostic procedure that simultaneously evaluates cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic function during progressive exercise, typically on a treadmill or bicycle. The test measures oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production, ventilatory parameters, and hemodynamic responses to determine exercise capacity and identify limiting factors. CPET is particularly valuable for heart failure evaluation, pre-operative risk assessment, exercise prescription, and distinguishing cardiac from pulmonary causes of dyspnea. Key parameters include peak VO2, anaerobic threshold, and ventilatory efficiency.
Usage
Usage note: Include specific measured parameters (peak VO2, anaerobic threshold) in reporting.
In Context
- "Cardiopulmonary exercise testing revealed a peak VO2 of 14 mL/kg/min, indicating severe functional limitation." — Heart transplant evaluation report
- "The VE/VCO2 slope of 45 on cardiopulmonary exercise testing suggested poor ventilatory efficiency." — Heart failure clinic note