V/Q Scan Test
A V/Q scan checks for lung problems, especially a blood clot in the lungs (pulmonary embolism). It uses two imaging tests: one to see how air moves in your lungs (ventilation) and another to see how blood flows (perfusion).
What this test measures
A V/Q scan measures how air moves in and out of your lungs (ventilation) and how blood flows in your lungs (perfusion).
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Frequently asked questions
What is a V/Q scan?
A V/Q scan is two imaging tests that look at how air moves in your lungs (ventilation) and how blood flows in your lungs (perfusion).
Why is a V/Q scan done?
It is most often used to check for a pulmonary embolism (PE), a blood clot in the lungs. It can also find blood flow problems or check lung function before surgery.
What does it mean if my V/Q scan results are not normal?
If results are not normal, it may mean something is keeping your lungs from working properly. If ventilation and perfusion images don't match, it could mean you have a PE.
What conditions can a V/Q scan detect besides PE?
It may also show COPD, pneumonia, or heart failure.
How is a pulmonary embolism related to deep vein thrombosis?
A PE usually happens when a DVT blood clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: V/Q Scan — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.