Oscillation mechanics of the respiratory system in never-smoking patients with silicosis: pathophysiological study and evaluation of diagnostic accuracy

OBJECTIVES: Silicosis is a chronic and incurable occupational disease that can progress even after the cessation of exposure. Recent studies suggest that the forced oscillation technique may help to clarify the changes in lung mechanics resulting from silicosis as well as the detection of these changes. We investigated the effects of airway obstruction in silicosis on respiratory impedance and evaluated the diagnostic efficacy of the forced oscillation technique in these patients. METHODS: Spirometry was used to classify the airway obstruction, which resulted in four subject categories: controls (n=21), patients with a normal exam (n=12), patients with mild obstruction (n=22), and patients with moderate-to-severe obstruction (n=12). Resistive data were interpreted using the zero-intercept resistance (R0), the resistance at 4 Hz (Rrs4), and the mean resistance. We also analyzed the mean reactance (Xm) and the dynamic compliance. The total mechanical load was evaluated using the absolute value of the respiratory impedance (Z4Hz). The diagnostic potential was evaluated by investigating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01725971. RESULTS: We observed significant (p<0.0002) increases in R0, Rrs4, Rm, and Z4Hz and significant reductions in Crs,dyn (p<0.0002) and Xm (p<0.0001). R0, Rrs4, Rm, and Z4Hz performed adequately in the diagnosis of mild obstruction (area under the curve>0.80) and highly accurately in the detection of moderate-to-severe obstruction (area under the curve>0.90). CONCLUSIONS: The forced oscillation technique may contribute to the study of the pathophysiology of silicosis and may improve the treatment offered to these patients, thus representing an alternative and/or complementary tool for evaluating respiratory mechanics. .

Severity classification for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by using fuzzy logic

OBJECTIVE: To set out a severity classification for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) based on the interaction of pulmonary function parameters with high resolution computed tomography (CT) findings. INTRODUCTION: Despite the contribution of functional and radiological methods in the study of IPF, there are few classification proposals for the disease based on these examinations. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out, in which 41 non-smoking patients with IPF were evaluated. The following high resolution CT findings were quantified using a semi-quantitative scoring system: reticular abnormality, honeycombing and ground-glass opacity. The functional variables were measured by spirometry, forced oscillation technique, helium dilution method, as well as the single-breath method of diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide. With the interaction between functional indexes and high resolution CT scores through fuzzy logic, a classification for IPF has been built. RESULTS: Out of 41 patients studied, 26 were male and 15 female, with a mean age of 70.8 years. Volume measurements were the variables which showed the best interaction with the disease extension on high resolution CT, while the forced vital capacity showed the lowest estimative errors in comparison to total lung capacity. A classification for IPF was suggested based on the 95 percent confidence interval of the forced vital capacity percent: mild group (>92.7); moderately mild (76.9-92.6); moderate (64.3-76.8 percent); moderately severe (47.1-64.2); severe (24.3-47.0); and very severe (<24.3). CONCLUSION: Through fuzzy logic, an IPF classification was built based on forced vital capacity measurement with a simple practical application.

Total inspiratory and expiratory impedance in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

OBJECTIVES: Several studies have confirmed the high potential of the forced oscillation technique for the assessment of respiratory modifications related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, most of these studies did not employ within-breath analyses of the respiratory system. The aim of this study is to analyze respiratory impedance alterations in different phases of the respiratory cycle of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and to evaluate their clinical use. METHODS: 39 individuals were evaluated, including 20 controls and 19 individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who experienced severe airway obstruction.Weevaluated the mean respiratory impedance (Zm) as well as values for inspiration (Zi) and expiration cycles (Ze), at the beginning of inspiration (Zbi) and expiration (Zbe). The peak-to-peak impedance (Zpp), and the impedance change (DZrs) were also analyzed. The clinical usefulness was evaluated by investigating the sensibility, specificity and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS: The respiratory impedance increased in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in all of the studied parameters (Zm, Zi, Ze, Zbi, Zbe, DZrs and Zpp). These changes were inversely associated with spirometric parameters. Higher impedanceswere observed in the expiratory phase of individualswith chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. All of the studied parameters, except for DZrs (area under the receiver operating characteristic ,0.8), exhibited high accuracy for clinical use (area under the receiver operating characteristic .0.90; Sensibility $ 0.85; Sp $ 0.85). CONCLUSIONS: The respiratory alterations in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be identified by the increase in respiratory system impedance, which is more evident in the expiratory phase. These results confirm the potential of within-breath analysis of respiratory impedance for the assessment of respiratory modifications related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Forced oscillation technique in the detection of smoking-induced respiratory alterations: diagnostic accuracy and comparison with spirometry

INTRODUCTION: Detection of smoking effects is of utmost importance in the prevention of cigarette-induced chronic airway obstruction. The forced oscillation technique offers a simple and detailed approach to investigate the mechanical properties of the respiratory system. However, there have been no data concerning the use of the forced oscillation technique to evaluate respiratory mechanics in groups with different degrees of tobacco consumption. OBJECTIVES: (1) to evaluate the ability of the forced oscillation technique to detect smoking-induced respiratory alterations, with special emphasis on early alterations; and (2) to compare the diagnostic accuracy of the forced oscillation technique and spirometric parameters. METHODS: One hundred and seventy subjects were divided into five groups according to the number of pack-years smoked: four groups of smokers classified as <20, 20-39, 40-59, and >60 pack-years and a control group. The four groups of smokers were compared with the control group using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS: The early adverse effects of smoking in the group with <20 pack-years were adequately detected by forced oscillation technique parameters. In this group, the comparisons of the ROC curves showed significantly better diagnostic accuracy (p<0.01) for forced oscillation technique parameters. On the other hand, in groups of 20-39, 40-59, and >60 pack-years, the diagnostic performance of the forced oscillation technique was similar to that observed with spirometry. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that forced oscillation technique parameters were able to detect early smoking-induced respiratory involvement when pathologic changes are still potentially reversible. These findings support the use of the forced oscillation technique as a versatile clinical diagnostic tool in helping with chronic obstructive lung disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Técnica de oscilações forçadas na avaliação funcional de pacientes com fibrose cística com idade superior a 18 anos / Forced oscillation techinique for the functional evaluation of cystic fibrosis patients older 18 years

Objetivo: o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as alterações nas propriedades resistivas e reativas do sistema respiratório de pacientes com fibrose cística. Metodologia: o estudo foi realizado em um grupo controle de 23 indivíduos saudáveis, e em um grupo de 27 pacientes com fibrose cística com idade maior que 18 anos que foram avaliados pela FOT e espirometria. Resultados: os pacientes com fibrose cística apresentaram aumento significativo (p<0,0001) na resistência total do sistema respiratório (R0), redução significativa do coeficiente angular da curva de resistência (S) (p<0,0006) e na complacência dinâmica (Cdin, sr) (p<0,0001) em comparação aos indivíduos saudáveis. Conclusão: os resultados do presente estudo são coerentes com a fisiopatologia da fibrose cística. A FOT descreveu adequadamente estas alterações, demonstrando elevado potencial na avaliação da mecânica pulmonar de pacientes com fibrose cística com idade superior a 18 anos.

Introduction: The aims of this study were (1) to investigate the changes in resistive and reactive properties of the respiratory system of cystic fibrosis patients older than 18 years and (2) assess the contribution of the forced oscillation technique (FOT) in the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. Methodology: The study was conducted in a control group of 23 healthy individuals and a group of 27 cystic fibrosis patients older than 18 years who were assessed by the FOT and spirometry. Results: Cysticfibrosis patients presented increased total respiratory resistance (R0) (p <0.0001) and reduced slope of resistance curve (S) (p<0.0006) and dynamic compliance (Cdyn,rs) (p <0.0001) compared to healthy individuals. Conclusion: The results of thisstudy are consistent with the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis. The FOT adequately described these changes, showing great potential in assessing pulmonary mechanics of patients with cystic fibrosis with age over 18 years.

Influence of the ageing process on the resistive and reactive properties of the respiratory system

INTRODUCTION: In an increasingly old society, the study of the respiratory system changes and new techniques dedicated to older patients are of interest in physiologic studies as well as in the diagnosis of respiratory diseases. OBJECTIVES: (1) To investigate the impact of ageing on the resistive and reactive properties of the respiratory system, and (2) to compare the easiness of accomplishment of spirometry and forced oscillation for assessing lung function. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in which forced oscillation was used to investigate respiratory system resistive and reactive properties, while spirometry was used as a reference test to evaluate 80 normal subjects aged between 20 and 86 years. A questionnaire was used to evaluate the easiness of accomplishment of spirometry and forced oscillation. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in the respiratory system resonance frequency (p<0.003) and a reduction in the mean reactance (p<0.004) with increasing age. Respiratory system resistance and dynamic compliance were not related to the ageing process. The easiness of accomplishment of forced oscillation measurements was greater than that of spirometry. This result was particularly relevant in subjects over 70 years old (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Respiratory system resistance and dynamic compliance are not modified with ageing. On the other hand, respiratory system homogeneity decreases during the ageing process. Forced oscillation is easy to perform and provides information complementary to spirometry. This technique may be a promising alternative and/or complement to other conventional exams used to evaluate older people who are unable to adequately perform spirometric tests.

Efeito da obstrução de vias aéreas nas variações das propriedades resistivas e elásticas do sistema respiratório de asmáticos, mediadas pelo uso de salbutamol / Effects of airway obstruction on albuterol-mediated variations in the resistive and elastic properties of the respiratory system of patients with asthma

OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos da obstrução de vias aéreas nas variações das propriedades resistivas e elásticas do sistema respiratório de asmáticos adultos mediadas pelo uso de salbutamol. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados 24 indivíduos controles e 69 asmáticos, todos não tabagistas, divididos em três grupos segundo o nível de obstrução de vias aéreas (leve, moderada e acentuada). Cada grupo foi dividido em dois subgrupos de acordo com a resposta broncodilatadora: resposta broncodilatadora positiva (RB+) ou negativa (RB-). A espirometria foi utilizada para a avaliação da obstrução, e a técnica de oscilações forçadas, para a análise das propriedades resistivas e elásticas, sendo realizadas antes e após a utilização de 300 µg de salbutamol. RESULTADOS: A resistência no intercepto (R0) apresentou maior redução nos grupos com maior obstrução. Essa redução foi mais evidente nos subgrupos RB+ do que nos RB- (p < 0,02 e p < 0,03, respectivamente). Houve diferença significativa entre o grupo controle e a o subgrupo com obstrução acentuada RB+ (p < 0,002). As reduções na elastância dinâmica (Edyn) se acentuaram significativamente com a obstrução, tanto para os subgrupos RB- (p < 0,03), quanto para os RB+ (p < 0,003). As reduções da Edyn foram significativamente maiores nos subgrupos com obstrução moderada RB- (p < 0,008) e com obstrução acentuada RB+ (p < 0,0005) do que no grupo controle. CONCLUSÕES: Em asmáticos, o aumento da obstrução de vias aéreas resulta na elevação das variações em R0 e Edyn com o uso de salbutamol. Pacientes com RB+ apresentam variações mais elevadas que indivíduos com RB-.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of airway obstruction on albuterol-mediated variations in the resistive and elastic properties of the respiratory system of adult patients with asthma. METHODS: This study comprised 24 healthy controls and 69 patients with asthma, all of whom were nonsmokers. The patients were divided into three groups according to the severity of airway obstruction (mild, moderate or severe). Each of the three groups was divided into two subgroups according to the bronchodilator response (BR): positive (BR+) or negative (BR-). Airway obstruction was determined by means of spirometry, and the resistive and elastic properties were determined by means of the forced oscillation technique. These measurements were conducted before and after albuterol use (300 µg). RESULTS: The resistance at the intercept (R0) presented greater reductions in the groups with higher obstruction. This reduction was more evident in the BR+ subgroups than in the BR- subgroups (p < 0.02 and p < 0.03, respectively). There was a significant difference between the control group and the BR+ subgroup with severe obstruction (p < 0.002). The reductions in dynamic elastance (Edyn) were significantly greater in proportion to the degree of obstruction, in the BR- subgroups (p < 0.03), and in the BR+ subgroups (p < 0.003). The reductions in Edyn were significantly greater in the BR- subgroup with moderate obstruction (p < 0.008) and in the BR+ subgroup with severe obstruction (p < 0.0005) than in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with asthma, increased airway obstruction results in greater reductions in R0 and Edyn after albuterol use. These reductions are greater among BR+ patients than among BR- patients.

Broncodilatação na DPOC: muito além do VEF1-efeito do salbutamol nas propriedades resistivas e reativas do sistema respiratório / Bronchodilation in COPD: beyond FEV1-the effect of albuterol on resistive and reactive properties of the respiratory system

OBJETIVO: Atualmente existem importantes debates na literatura sobre a resposta broncodilatadora em pacientes com DPOC e se a variação do VEF1 pode ser considerada uma indicação completa de reversibilidade neste caso particular. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito do salbutamol nas propriedades resistivas e elásticas do sistema respiratório de portadores de DPOC. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 70 indivíduos com DPOC, classificados através da espirometria em dois grupos: broncodilatador (BD)-negativo (n = 39); e BD-positivo (n = 31). Utilizou-se a técnica de oscilações forçadas (TOF) para avaliar os seguintes parâmetros: a resistência no intercepto (R0), associada à resistência total do sistema respiratório; a resistência média (Rm), relacionada à resistência de vias aéreas centrais; e a complacência dinâmica (Cdyn); assim como o coeficiente angular da resistência (S) e a reatância média (Xm), relacionados com a homogeneidade do sistema respiratório. RESULTADOS: O uso do salbutamol resultou em reduções significativas de R0 (p < 0,00002) e Rm (p < 0,0002). Foram também observadas elevações significativas em S (p < 0,0001), Cdyn (p < 0,0001) e Xm (p < 0,00004). Estas alterações ocorreram tanto nos dois grupos, tendo sido observadas maiores modificações nos parâmetros da TOF do que nos parâmetros da espirometria. CONCLUSÕES: O uso de salbutamol melhorou o comportamento dos componentes resistivos e reativos do sistema respiratório dos pacientes com DPOC estudados. Estas mudanças ocorreram independentemente da classificação do exame empregando o VEF1, o que indica que a utilização deste parâmetro isoladamente pode não ser suficiente para identificar completamente os efeitos fisiológicos envolvidos.

OBJECTIVE: Current debates on the bronchodilator response in COPD patients and whether the variation in FEV1 can be considered as an indicator of complete reversibility in such patients motivated us to conduct this study. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of albuterol on the resistive and reactive properties of the respiratory system in COPD patients. METHODS: We evaluated 70 patients with COPD, divided into two groups based on spirometry findings: bronchodilator (BD)-negative (n = 39); and BD-positive (n = 31). We used the forced oscillation technique (FOT) to evaluate the following parameters: resistance at the intercept (R0), associated with the total resistance of the respiratory system; mean resistance (Rm), associated with central airway resistance; dynamic compliance (Cdyn); and the slope of resistance (S) and mean reactance (Xm), both of which are associated with the homogeneity of the respiratory system. RESULTS: The use of albuterol resulted in significant reductions in (p < 0.00002) and Rm (p < 0.0002). There were also significant increases in S (p < 0.0001), Cdyn (p < 0.0001) R0 and Xm (p < 0.00004).These modifications occurred in both groups, the changes in FOT parameters being greater than those observed for spirometric parameters. CONCLUSIONS: The use of albuterol improved the resistive and reactive properties of the respiratory system of the COPD patients under study. These changes occurred regardless of the FEV1-based classification, thereby indicating that the use of this parameter in isolation might not suffice to identify the physiological effects involved.

Within-breath analysis of respiratory mechanics in asthmatic patients by forced oscillation

INTRODUCTION: The within-breath analysis of respiratory mechanics by the monofrequency Forced Oscillation Technique (mFOT) is of great interest in both physiopathology studies and the diagnosis of respiratory diseases. However, there are limited data on the use of this technique in the analysis of asthma. This study evaluates within-breath mechanics of asthmatic individuals and the contribution of the mFOT in the asthma diagnosis. METHODS: Twenty-two healthy and twenty-two asthmatic subjects, including patients with mild (n=8), moderate (n=8), and severe (n=6) obstruction, were studied. Forced Oscillation Technique data were interpreted using the mean respiratory impedance (Zt), the impedance during inspiration (Zi), expiration (Ze), at the beginning of inspiration (Zii), and at expiration (Zie). The peakto-peak impedance (Zpp) was also calculated by the subtraction of Zii from Zie. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine the sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of m Forced Oscillation Technique parameters in identifying asthma. RESULTS: Respiratory impedance values were significantly higher in asthmatics: Zt (p<0.001), Zi (p<0.001), Ze (p<0.001), Zii (p<0.001), Zie (p<0.001), and Zpp (p<0.003). The best parameters for detecting asthma were Zi, Zii, and Zie (Se=90.9%, Sp=90.9%), followed by Zt and Ze. These results are in close agreement with recently published theories and pathophysiological fundamentals. CONCLUSIONS: mFOT permits a non-invasive and detailed analysis in different phases of the respiratory cycle, providing parameters that are adequate for the diagnosis of asthma with high accuracy. These results confirm the high clinical and scientific potential of this methodology in the evaluation of asthmatic patients.

Técnica de oscilações forçadas na avaliação funcional de crianças asmáticas / Forced oscillation technique in the evaluation of asmathic children

Objetivo: Investigar as alterações nas propriedades resistivas e reativas do sistema respiratório de crianças asmáticas e avaliar a contribuição da técnica de oscilações forçadas (FOT) no diagnóstico da asma. Metodologia: O estudo foi realizado em um grupo controle de 20 crianças saudáveis, e em um grupo de 20 crianças asmáticas, que foram avaliadas pela FOT e espirometria. Resultados: Considerando os parâmetros resistivos da FOT, houve um aumento significativo na resistência total do sistema respiratório (R0) (p<0,02) e não significativo na resistência média (Rm), além de uma redução significativa da inclinação do componente resistivo da impedância (S) (p<0,002), no grupo de crianças asmáticas. Nos parâmetros reativos a complacência dinâmica (Cdin,sr) mostrou-se significativamente (p< 0,01) menor, sendo acompanhada pela redução da reatância média (Xm) (p<0,01) e pela elevação significativa da frequência de ressonância (fr) (p< 0,03) no grupo de crianças asmáticas. Conclusão: Os resultados do presente estudo são coerentes com a fisiopatologia da asma. A FOT escreveu adequadamente estas alterações, demonstrando elevado potencial na avaliação da mecânica pulmonar de crianças asmáticas.

Objective: To investigate the alterations on resistive and reactive proprieties of the respiratory system and evaluate the contribution of the forced oscillation technique (FOT) on the diagnosis of the asthma in children. Methodology: The study was performed in a control group formed by 20 healthy children and 20 asthmatic children, which were evaluated by FOT and spirometry. Results: Considering the resistive parameters of the FOT in the asthmatic children group, the total respiratorysystem resistance (R0) had significant increase (p<0,02) and a not significant increase in mean respiratory resistance (Rm), and a significant decreased of the resistance/frequency slope (S) p<0,02). The reactive parameters, the dynamic compliance (Cdin) and the mean respiratory reactance (Xm) presented significant (p<0,01) reduction, and significant increase resonance frequency (fr) (0,03). Conclusion: The results of the present study, demonstrate that the FOT is useful for detecting the respiratory mechanics modifications. This indicate that the FOT has a high potential in evaluating respiratory mechanics of asthmatics children.

Tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução na silicose: correlação com radiografia e testes de função pulmonar / High-resolution computed tomography in silicosis: correlation with chest radiography and pulmonary function tests

OBJETIVO: Correlacionar os parâmetros tomográficos com os de função pulmonar em portadores de silicose, bem como comparar os resultados da tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução (TCAR) com os da radiografia de tórax. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo de corte transversal, em que foram avaliados 44 pacientes não-tabagistas e sem história pregressa de tuberculose. As radiografias foram classificadas de acordo com a proposta da Organização Internacional do Trabalho. Utilizando um sistema de escore semiquantitativo, os seguintes achados na TCAR foram quantificados: extensão total do envolvimento pulmonar, opacidades parenquimatosas e enfisema. Foram realizados espirometria, oscilações forçadas, avaliação dos volumes pulmonares pela técnica de diluição com hélio e medida da diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO, capacidade de difusão do monóxido de carbono). RESULTADOS: Dos 44 pacientes estudados, 41 eram homens, com média de idade de 48,4 anos. Na análise comparativa, 4 pacientes classificados na categoria 0 pela radiografia foram reclassificados na categoria 1 pela TCAR e, enquanto a radiografia diagnosticou 23 casos de fibrose maciça progressiva, a TCAR estabeleceu esse diagnóstico em 33 doentes. Para o escore de opacidades, as maiores correlações foram observadas com as medidas de fluxo, DLCO e complacência. Já o enfisema correlacionou-se negativamente com as medidas de volume, DLCO e fluxo. Nesta amostra com predomínio de grandes opacidades (75 por cento dos indivíduos), a deterioração da função pulmonar associou-se com a extensão das alterações estruturais. CONCLUSÕES: Na silicose, a TCAR é superior à radiografia tanto na detecção precoce da doença quanto na identificação de fibrose maciça progressiva.

OBJECTIVE: To correlate tomographic findings with pulmonary function findings, as well as to compare chest X-ray findings with high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings, in patients with silicosis. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 44 non-smoking patients without a history of tuberculosis. Chest X-ray findings were classified according to the International Labour Organization recommendations. Using a semiquantitative system, the following HRCT findings were measured: the full extent of pulmonary involvement; parenchymal opacities; and emphysema. Spirometry and forced oscillation were performed. Pulmonary volumes were evaluated using the helium dilution method, and diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was assessed. RESULTS: Of the 44 patients studied, 41 were male. The mean age was 48.4 years. There were 4 patients who were classified as category 0 based on X-ray findings and as category 1 based on HRCT findings. Using HRCT scans, we identified progressive massive fibrosis in 33 patients, compared with only 23 patients when X-rays were used. Opacity score was found to correlate most closely with airflow, DLCO and compliance. Emphysema score correlated inversely with volume, DLCO and airflow. In this sample of patients presenting a predominance of large opacities (75 percent of the individuals), the deterioration of pulmonary function was associated with the extent of structural changes. CONCLUSIONS: In the early detection of silicosis and the identification of progressive massive fibrosis, HRCT scans are superior to X-rays.

Efeito do Flutter® VRP1 na mecânica respiratória de indivíduos saudáveis e portadores de DPOC, asma e bronquiectasia / Respiratory mechanic effects of Flutter® VRP1 in healthy subjects and COPD, asthma and bronchiectasis patients

Introdução: O Flutter® VRP1 é um dispositivo que combina pressão positiva expiratória e oscilações de alta freqüência com objetivo de manter as vias aéreas pérvias. Apesar de sua utilização rotineira na prática da fisioterapia, seu efeito na mecânicarespiratória é escasso na literatura. O presente estudo investigou o efeito, a curto prazo, do uso deste dispositvo em indivíduos saudáveis e em pacientes portadores de Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC), asma e bronquiectasia. Metodologia: Os pacientes foram submetidos à utilização do Flutter® VRP1 por um período de 5 a 10 minutos. Para análise da mecânica respiratória, a técnica de oscilações forçadas (FOT) e a espirometria foram realizadas antes e imediatamente após o uso do dispositivo. Resultados: O uso do Flutter® VRP1 não resultou em alterações significativas nos parâmetros avaliados pela FOT nos grupos estudados. Considerando-se a espirometria, a única variável que apresentou diferença significativa (p<0,05) foi VEF1 (L) no grupo controle. Conclusão: Com o protocolo utilizado, nos grupos de indivíduos saudáveis e de portadores de DPOC, asma e bronquiectasia, o uso do Flutter® VRP1 não introduziu modificações, a curto prazo, na mecânica respiratória.

Introduction: The Flutter® VRP1 is a device that combines expiratory positive airway pressure with high frequency oscillations to keep airway clean. In spite of the widely clinical use, the effect analyze of this device in the respiratory mechanics of obstructive patients is little. The aim of the present study was to investigate the short-term effect of the use of the Flutter® VRP1 in healthy subjects and patients with Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive (COPD), asthma and bronchiectasis.Methodology: The patients were submitted to a protocol where the Flutter® VRP1 was used for a period of 5 to 10 minutes. Changes in pulmonary mechanics were analyzed by the forced oscillations technique (FOT) and spirometry, which were performed before and immediately after the use of the device. Results: The use of Flutter® VRP1 didn’t result in significant alterations in the evaluated parameters of FOT in the studied groups. Considering spirometry, the only variable that presented significant difference (p <0.05) was VEF1 (L) in healthy group. Conclusion: With the used protocol, in the studied populationof healthy subjects and patients with COPD, asthma and bronchiectasis, the use of the Flutter® VRP1 do not introduced shortterm modifications in respiratory mechanics.

Sensibilidade e especificidade da técnica de oscilações forçadas no diagnóstico precoce da DPOC / Sensibility and specificity of the forced oscillation technique in earlier detection of COPD

Introdução: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a sensibilidade e a especificidade da técnica de oscilações forçadas (TOF) na detecção precoce dos estágios iniciais da doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC). Metodologia: O estudo foi realizado num grupo controle composto por 30 indivíduos saudáveis, e em 98 fumantes, que foram classificados pela espirometria emnormal (n=59) e com distúrbio ventilatório obstrutivo leve (n=39). Os parâmetros resistivos da impedância estudados foram a média da resistência respiratória total extrapolada em 0 Hz (R0), a resistência respiratória média (Rm) e a inclinação do componente resistivo da impedância (S). A reatância foi interpretada usando a média dos valores (Xm) na faixa de freqüênciaentre 4-32 Hz da complacência dinâmica (Crs,dyn) e do valor de freqüência de ressonância (Fr). Resultados: As resistências aumentaram significativamente com o grau de obstrução (R0, p<0,0001; Rm, p<0,0001). Foram também observadas modificações significativas nas propriedades reativas (Crs,dyn, p<0,0001; Xm, p<0,03). Os parâmetros R0, Rm e Crs,dyn apresentaramacuidade diagnóstica suficiente para identificar modificações de mecânica respiratória em pacientes sem alterações aos exames espirométricos. Conclusão: A TOF pode contribuir para a detecção precoce dos efeitos do tabagismo, sendo que os parâmetros mais adequados para estas análises são R0, Rm e Crs,dyn.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to test the ability of forced oscillation technique (FOT) to describe the changes in respiratory mechanics in earlier stages of COPD. Methodology: The study was performed in a control group formed by 30 healthy subjects,and 98 smokers, which were classified by spirometry in normal (59 smokers) and mild airway obstruction (39 smokers). Resistive impedance data were submitted to linear regression analysis over the 4-16 Hz frequency range, which yielded the total respiratory system resistance extrapolated at 0 Hz (R0), the mean respiratory resistance (Rm), and the resistance/ frequency slope(S). Reactance data were interpreted using the mean values (Xm) over the 4-32 Hz frequency range, the dynamic compliance (Crs,dyn), and theresonant frequency (Fr) data. Results: The resistances increased significantly in agreement with the degree of obstruction (R0, p<0.0001; Rm, p<0.0001). Were also observed significantly modifications in reactive proprieties (Crs,dyn, p<0.0001; Xm, p<0.03). The parameters R0, Rm and Crs,dyn presented sufficient sensibility to identify respiratory mechanics modifications in patients withoutspirometric alterations. Conclusion: FOT can contribute to early detection of tobacco smoke effects, and the more adequate parameters to these analysis are R0, Rm e Crs,dy.

Correlação dos achados tomográficos com parâmetros de função pulmonar na fibrose pulmonar idiopática em não fumantes / Correlation of tomographic findings with pulmonary function parameters in nonsmoking patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

OBJETIVO: Correlacionar os achados tomográficos com os parâmetros de função pulmonar em portadores de fibrose pulmonar idiopática (FPI). MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo de corte transversal, em que foram avaliados 30 pacientes não tabagistas, portadores de FPI. Utilizando um sistema de escore semiquantitativo, os seguintes achados na tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução (TCAR) foram quantificados: extensão total da doença intersticial (Tot), infiltrado reticular e faveolamento (Ret+Fav), e opacidade em vidro fosco (Vif). As variáveis funcionais foram mensuradas através de espirometria, técnica de oscilações forçadas (TOF), método da diluição com hélio e método da respiração única para medir a capacidade de difusão do monóxido de carbono (DLCO). RESULTADOS: Dos 30 pacientes estudados, 18 eram mulheres e 12 eram homens, com média de idade de 70,9 anos. Foram encontradas correlações significativas de Tot e Ret+Fav com as medidas de capacidade vital forçada (CVF), capacidade pulmonar total (CPT), DLCO e complacência dinâmica do sistema respiratório (correlações negativas), e de Vif com volume residual/CPT (correlação positiva). A relação fluxo expiratório forçado entre 25 e 75 por cento da CVF/CVF (FEF25-75 por cento/CVF) correlacionou-se positivamente com Tot, Ret+Fav e Vif. CONCLUSÕES: Em portadores de FPI, as medidas de volume, difusão e complacência dinâmica são as variáveis fisiológicas que melhor refletem a extensão da doença intersticial na TCAR.

OBJECTIVE: To correlate tomographic findings with pulmonary function parameters in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out, in which 30 nonsmoking patients with IPF were evaluated. Using a semiquantitative scoring system, the following high-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) findings were quantified: total interstitial disease (TID), reticular abnormality/honeycombing, and ground-glass opacity (GGO). The functional variables were measured by spirometry, forced oscillation technique (FOT), helium dilution method, as well as the single-breath method of measuring diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO). RESULTS: Of the 30 patients studied, 18 were female, and 12 were male, with a mean age of 70.9 years. We found that TID and reticular abnormality and honeycombing correlated significantly (negative correlations) with the measurements of forced vital capacity (FVC), total lung capacity (TLC), DLCO, and dynamic respiratory compliance were found, as well as that GGO correlated significantly (and positively) with residual volume/TLC. The ratio of forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75 percent of FVC to FVC (FEF25-75 percent/FVC) correlated positively with TID, reticular abnormality/honeycombing, and GGO. CONCLUSION: In IPF patients, the measurements of volume, diffusion, and dynamic compliance are the physiological variables which best reflect the extent of the interstitial disease on HRCT scans.

Comparação da função pulmonar com a radiografia de tórax em trabalhadores expostos à sílica / Comparison of the respiratory function with the chest radiography in silica-exposed workers

Introdução: a radiografia de tórax ainda é, nos dias atuais, o principal método de diagnóstico da silicose. A determinação das conseqüências funcionais também é aspecto central da avaliação desses trabalhadores. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever os achados funcionais e compará-los com os da radiografia de tórax, em indivíduos com história de exposição à sílica. Metodologia: foi realizado um estudo de corte transversal, em que foram avaliados 44 indivíduos não-tabagistas e sem história pregressa de tuberculose. As radiografias foram classificadas de acordo com a proposta da Organização Internacionaldo Trabalho (OIT). As variáveis funcionais foram mensuradas através de espirometria, oscilações forçadas, diluição com hélio e difusão com monóxido de carbono (DCO). Resultados: dos 44 trabalhadores estudados, 41 eram homens, com média de idade de 48,4 anos. Com relação ao padrão de dano funcional, 26 trabalhadores apresentaram distúrbio obstrutivo, 10 tinham distúrbio misto, três tinham distúrbio restritivo e 18 mostraram redução da DCO. Diagnosticaram-se radiologicamente 40 casos de silicose, constatando-se que, quanto mais avançada a categoria radiológica, como as grandes opacidades, piores foram os resultados das medidas de fluxo, DCO e complacência dinâmica do sistema respiratório. Conclusão: a obstrução ao fluxo aéreo é o dano funcional mais freqüente em indivíduos não-fumantes com exposição à poeira de sílica. A deterioração da função pulmonar associa-se à classificação das grandes opacidades na radiografia de tórax, o que reforça o valor dos testes de função pulmonar no acompanhamento da silicose.

A tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução na esclerose sistêmica / High resolution computed tomography in systemic sclerosis

Introdução: A tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução do tórax (TCAR) representa atualmente a principal técnica diagnóstica na avaliação do envolvimento pulmonar pela esclerose sistêmica (ES). Os objetivos deste estudo foram descrever os achados tomográficos e compará-los com os da radiografia de tórax. Metodologia: Foi realizado um estudo de corte transversal, em que foram avaliados 49 pacientes não tabagistas, portadores de ES. Todos os pacientes realizaram radiografia de tórax e tomografia computadorizada de alta resolução (TCAR). Os seguintes achados tomográficos foram avaliados: opacidades em vidro fosco, infiltrado reticular, faveolamento, bronquiectasias de tração, envolvimento pleural e linfonodomegalias mediastinais. Resultados: Dos 49 pacientes estudados, 47 eram mulheres, com média de idade de 47,2 anos. Foram observadas alterações intersticiais em 42 (85,7%) das TCAR, enquanto 32 (65,3%) das radiografias de tórax se apresentavam alteradas. Os achados mais freqüentes à TCAR foram: infiltrado reticular (85,7%) e bronquiectasias de tração (57,1%). A radiografia convencional do tórax e a TCAR demonstraram o faveolamento em 11 (22,4%) e 26 (53,1%) casos, respectivamente. Houve boa concordância entre os dois métodos na capacidade de mostrar esse tipo de anormalidade (φ = 0,51; p<0,001). Conclusão: A ES acarreta fibrose pulmonar na maioria dos pacientes. A TCAR é mais sensível que a radiografia de tórax para a investigação do envolvimento intersticial nesta doença.

Avaliação das características resistivas do sistema respiratório de indivíduos portadores de silicose pela técnica de oscilações forçadas / Using the forced oscillation technique to evaluate respiratory resistance in individuals with silicosis

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o comportamento dos parâmetros resistivos obtidos por meio da técnica de oscilações forçadas em pacientes portadores de diferentes graus de obstrução respiratória em decorrência da silicose. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados 40 indivíduos não tabagistas, sendo 10 sadios, sem história de doença pulmonar e exposição à sílica, e 30 portadores de silicose. Os voluntários foram examinados por meio da técnica de oscilações forçadas e da espirometria, técnica utilizada como referência para se classificar os diferentes níveis de obstrução. Desta classificação resultou a separação dos indivíduos em cinco grupos: controle (n = 10); normal ao exame, composto por indivíduos com laudo clínico e radiológico de silicose, porém normais ao exame espirométrico (n = 7); com obstrução leve (n = 10); com obstrução moderada (n = 8); e com obstrução acentuada (n = 5). RESULTADOS: A redução dos parâmetros espirométricos correspondeu a um significativo aumento na resistência total do sistema respiratório (p < 0,001), assim como na resistência associada às vias aéreas (p < 0,003). Foi também observada uma significativa redução na homogeneidade do sistema respiratório (p < 0,004). CONCLUSÃO: As informações adicionais referentes às propriedades resistivas do sistema respiratório, obtidas por meio da técnica de oscilações forçadas, podem contribuir para a complementação dos dados obtidos a partir de exames espirométricos em indivíduos portadores de silicose, o que ressalta o elevado potencial desta técnica na análise desses pacientes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the resistance values obtained through the use of the forced oscillation technique in patients with varying degrees of airway obstruction resulting from silicosis. METHODS: A total of 40 never-smoking volunteers were analyzed: 10 were healthy subjects with no history of pulmonary disease or silica exposure, and 30 had silicosis. The forced oscillation technique was used to examine the subjects, and spirometry was used as a reference in order to classify the obstruction by degree. This classification resulted in five groups: control (n = 10); normal exam, composed of individuals diagnosed clinically and radiologically with silicosis but presenting normal spirometry results (n = 7); mild obstruction (n = 10); moderate obstruction (n = 8); and severe obstruction (n = 5). RESULTS: The reduction observed in the spirometric values corresponded to a significant increase in the total respiratory resistance (p < 0.001), as well as in airway resistance (p < 0.003). A significant reduction in ventilation homogeneity was also observed (p < 0.004). CONCLUSION: In individuals with silicosis, the additional respiratory resistance-related data obtained through the use of the forced oscillation technique can complement spirometric data. Therefore, the forced oscillation technique presents great potential for the analysis of such patients.