Health Encyclopedia

Plethysmography

Definition

Plethysmography is a test used to measure changes in blood flow or air volume in different parts of the body. It may be done to check for blood clots in the arms and legs, or to measure how much air you can hold in your lungs.

Penile pulse volume recording is a type of plethysmography done on the penis to check for causes of erectile dysfunction.

Alternative Names

Respiratory inductance plethysmography; Penile pulse volume recording

References

Lue TF, Broderick GA. Evaluation and nonsurgical management of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 22.

Review Date:2/22/2009
Reviewed By:David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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