A diagnostic system and methods for detecting abnormalities in central and
peripheral respiratory control chemoreceptors is provided. The system and
methods are based on distinguishing between relative sensitivities of
chemoreceptors of individuals with normal and compromised chemoreceptors.
Predetermined combined carbon dioxide and oxygen levels are provided to a
subject for a specified period of time, during which physiological
parameters are measured as an indication of response to the
chemoreceptors relative sensitivities. A preferred method provides higher
than normal combined concentrations of carbon dioxide and oxygen, and
lower than normal combined concentrations of carbon dioxide and oxygen,
and measures physiological parameters to calculate an index, taking into
account the basic parameters of the patient such as age,
cardio-pulmonological condition and BMI, and provide a diagnosis
regarding the function of the respiratory control chemoreceptors.
