Which condition can spirometry reveal?

Spirometry is a diagnostic tool primarily used to assess lung function by measuring the volume and speed of airflow during inhalation and exhalation. It plays a crucial role in identifying respiratory conditions by evaluating how well the lungs work.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that results in episodic wheezing, breathlessness, and cough. Spirometry can show reversible airflow obstruction, which is characteristic of asthma, as well as assess the severity of any bronchoconstriction present.

In contrast, the other conditions listed—diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia—are metabolic or cardiovascular issues that do not directly involve lung function. Spirometry would not provide relevant information regarding the presence or severity of these conditions since they require different diagnostic tools and tests, such as blood tests or blood pressure measurements. Thus, the most appropriate and relevant condition that spirometry can reveal is asthma, due to its direct impact on respiratory function.