Routine Lung Function Tests
Key Points
Key Points
- Interpretation of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) must take into account a level of uncertainty relating to:
- how representative the obtained result was of the individual’s lung function at the time of testing,
- how the pre-test probability of disease may influence what is the appropriate threshold for that individual, and
- how valid for the individual the reference population is against which the test is being judged.
- In the future it may also be reasonable to set clinical decision-making thresholds for a test based on clinical risk and observed clinical outcomes.
- A more comprehensive approach to interpretation (not simply relying on whether results are within or outside the normal range) is imperative for appropriate interpretation of lung function when pre-screening for employment, for tracking the effects of exposure, for disability assessment, and for risk assessment for therapies potentially toxic to the lungs.
- The interpretation of PFT results must always consider the inherent biological variability of the tests and the uncertainty of the test result.
Interpretation
...Inter...
...Function Initiative (GLI) reference eq...
...mination of a Bronchodilator ResponseBroncho...
...e limited data to support a single recommend...
...ox 2. Calculation of a Conditional Chang...
...ox 3. Calculation of FEV1Q in adultsFE...
Figures
...Figures...
...ormal Distribution With Z-scores and Percen...
.... FEV1/FVC Predicted and Limits of Normal C...
...gure 3. Comparison of the ATS/ERS 2005...
...ure 4. Examples of Typical Flow-Volum...
...oach to Interpretation of Spiromet...
...assification of Ventilatory Impairmen...
...pproach to Interpretation of DLCO...
...igure 7. Approach to Interpretation o...
...ication of Ventilatory Impairments Defined...
Tables
...Tables...
...1. Functional Classification of Common...
...able 2. Summary of Types of Spirometrical...
...ng Function Indices Capable of Differentiating...