El impacto silencioso de la rinitis sobre la vía aérea inferior / The silent correlate of rhinitis on lower airway

Resumen El aparato respiratorio, desde la nariz al pulmón, se comporta como una unidad anatómica y fisiopatológica bajo un modelo holístico. Se han observado alteraciones pulmonares sin traducción clínica en pacientes con rinitis sin asma, que se manifiestan como hiperreac tividad bronquial, reducción de la función pulmonar e inflamación bronquial. Estas serían consecuencia de un fenómeno inflamatorio sistémico con impacto simultá neo en nariz y pulmón, que por razones desconocidas no tiene una expresión clínica completa, pero que podrían significar un mayor riesgo de desarrollo de asma. En esta revisión abordamos la frecuencia y caracte rísticas de las anormalidades pulmonares existentes en niños y adolescentes con rinitis crónica derivadas de nuestras investigaciones previas y, más recientemente, del proyecto "Enfermedad Alérgica Respiratoria: El Con cepto de Unidad de la Vía Aérea", línea de investigación acreditada por la Universidad Católica de Córdoba y un análisis comparativo con las evidencias aportadas por otros autores en la literatura médica.

Abstract The respiratory tract, from the nose to the lung, behaves as an anatomical and pathophysiological unit under a holistic model. Lower airway abnormalities, such as bronchial hyperresponsiveness, reduced lung function and inflammation of the bronchial mucosa without clinical expression, have been observed in pa tients with rhinitis without asthma. These would be the consequence of a common systemic inflammatory phenomenon with simultaneous impact on the nose and lung. For unknown reasons, these patients do not exhibit a full clinical expression, which could mean an increased risk of developing asthma. In this review we address the frequency and charac teristics of existing pulmonary abnormalities in children and adolescents with chronic rhinitis that derive from our previous research and, more recently, within the project "Allergic Respiratory Disease: The United Airway Con cept" supported by the Universidad Católica de Córdoba, and a comparative analysis with the evidence provided by other authors in the medical literature.

Effectiveness of balloon therapy versus incentive spirometry in promotion of respiratory function in children with lower respiratory tract diseases in selected hospitals Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Background: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are one of the most common infections that affect children抯 respiratory systems it develops when the lung, specifically the lower airways become infected. The present study aims that breathing exercise helps to strengthen the children抯 lungs and help to reduce the severity of respiratory sign and symptoms. So, balloon breathing exercises will be more acceptable among children.Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 60 children diagnosed with LRTI at selected hospitals, Lucknow by using a convenient sampling technique. The clinical respiratory score scale (CRS), PedsQL (Multidimensional fatigue scale) was used to measure respiratory parameter and level of fatigue. Written permission was obtained from the authorities of Balrampur hospital and Vivekananda polyclinic and institute of medical sciences, Lucknow where the study was conducted.Results: Data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. All p values less than 0.05 were treated as significant.0.83�61 of the children in the experimental group and 0.93�88 in the control group and a p=0.536. This illustrates that overall CRS had no significant difference and results of comparison of the experimental and control group -4.0625�86765, -4.0517�93027 respectively. P=0.994 which is not statistically different.Conclusions: The study concluded that as per the present research study data, balloon therapy was found to be effective. Hence, the present research hypothesis (H1, H2, H3) is accepted.

Relación entre la calidad del aire y el asma en habitantes de grandes altitudes, La Paz, Bolivia (3.600 m.s.n.m.) / Relation between air quality and asthma in high-altitude places, La Paz, Bolivia (3,600 m a.s.l.)

Resumen Introducción. El asma es una enfermedad crónica que afecta a millones de personas en todo el mundo. La calidad del aire es uno de los factores clave que puede desencadenar los síntomas del asma. Objetivo. Analizar la calidad del aire y su relación con el asma en habitantes de grandes altitudes en La Paz (Bolivia). Materiales y métodos. Se desarrolló un estudio analítico, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se recolectaron datos de pacientes con diagnóstico de asma en el Instituto Nacional del Tórax y en el Instituto Boliviano de Biología de Altura. Además, se monitoreó la calidad del aire y su material particulado en las estaciones de la "Red de monitoreo de la calidad del aire". Resultados. El 56,9 % de los casos fueron mujeres del Instituto Nacional del Tórax y el 45,7 % del Instituto Boliviano de Biología de Altura. En ambas instituciones, la media de edad fue de 47 años y los pacientes presentaban sobrepeso u obesidad. Se registraron incrementos de material particulado fino (PM2,5) en otoño, invierno y primavera, en 2014, 2016-2019 y en las cuatro estaciones del 2015. El material particulado inhalable grueso (PM10) se incrementó en otoño e invierno del 2014 al 2020, dentro de los límites establecidos. Se observó una asociación positiva y significativa entre la concentración de material particulado PM2,5 y los parámetros espirométricos de capacidad vital forzada, flujo espiratorio máximo y el porcentaje de reversión. La relación de partículas PM10 y los parámetros espirométricos de capacidad vital forzada, volumen espiratorio máximo en el primer segundo y flujo espiratorio máximo, también fue estadísticamente significativa. Conclusión. Los casos de asma se presentaron en promedio a los 47 años y en personas con sobrepeso u obesidad. Se observó una asociación positiva entre el material particulado, PM2,5 y PM10, con los parámetros espirométricos, la cual fue más marcada con las partículas PM2,5.

Abstract Introduction. Asthma is a chronic disease affecting millions of people around the world. Air quality is a major factor in triggering asthma symptoms. Objective. To analyze air quality and asthma in high-altitude residents of La Paz, Bolivia. Materials and methods. In this analytical, descriptive, and retrospective study, we collected data from patients diagnosed with asthma at the Instituto Nacional del Tórax and the Instituto Boliviano de Biología de Altura. In addition, air quality monitoring of particulate matter was carried out at the stations of the Red de Monitoreo de la Calidad del Aire. Results. Women represented 56.9% of cases at the Instituto Nacional del Tórax and the Instituto Boliviano de Biología de Altura. In both institutions, the average age was 47 years and patients were overweight or obese. Increases in PM2.5 were recorded in autumn, winter and spring from 2014, 2016 to 2019 and 2015 in all four seasons. PM10 showed increases in autumn and winter from 2014 to 2020 within the established limits. We observed a positive and significant association between PM2,5 concentration and the spirometry parameters of forced vital capacity, peak expiratory flow,, and "reversibility percentage" or "bronchodilator response percentage". The association of PM10 and forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, and peak expiratory flow, was also statistically significant. Conclusion. Asthma cases occur on average at 47 years of age in overweight or obese people. We observed a positive association between particles PM2,5 and PM10 with spirometric parameters, stronger with particulate matter PM2,5.

Development of a web application to evaluate spirometric curve and clinical variables to support COPD diagnosis in primary care / Desarrollo de una aplicación web para evaluar los datos de la espirometría y las variables clínicas para apoyar el diagnóstico de EPOC en atención primaria

Introduction. Choric obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third mortality cause in the world, and the development of useful diagnostic tools is necessary to improve timely diagnostic rates in primary care settings. Objective. To develop a web application displaying spirometric and clinical information - including respiratory symptoms and risk factors- to facilitate a COPD diagnosis. Materials and methods. In this cross-sectional study, an expert consensus was carried out with three specialists using the Delphi method to choose the relevant variables for COPD diagnosis. We developed a Python-based web application to diagnose COPD, displaying the clinical variables deemed relevant by the experts along the spirometric curve. Results. Twenty-six clinical variables were included in the web application for the diagnosis of COPD. A fourth expert used the web application to classify a cohort of 695 patients who had undergone spirometry in a third-level centre and had answered at least one of five questionnaires for COPD screening. Out of the 695 subjects, 34% had COPD, according to the expert that diagnosed them using the web application. Only 42% of the patients in the COPD group had received a previous COPD diagnosis and 19% of the patients in the no COPD group had been misdiagnosed with the disease. Conclusion. We developed a web application that displays demographic and clinical information, as well as spirometric data, to facilitate the process of diagnosing COPD in primary care settings.

Introducción. La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es la tercera causa de mortalidad en el mundo y es necesario el desarrollo de herramientas diagnósticas útiles para mejorar las tasas de diagnóstico oportuno en los entornos de atención primaria. Objetivo. Desarrollar una aplicación web que muestre la información clínica y de la espirometría -incluyendo síntomas respiratorios y factores de riesgo- para facilitar el diagnóstico de la EPOC. Materiales y métodos. En este estudio transversal se realizó un consenso de expertos con tres especialistas usando el método Delphi para elegir las variables relevantes para el diagnóstico de EPOC. Se desarrolló una aplicación web basada en Python que muestra la información clínica relevante según los expertos, junto con la curva y los datos de la espirometría para el diagnóstico de la EPOC. Resultados. Se incluyeron 26 variables clínicas para el diagnóstico de la EPOC. Un cuarto experto utilizó la aplicación web para clasificar una cohorte de 695 pacientes a los que se les había realizado una espirometría en un centro de tercer nivel y que habían contestado al menos uno de los cinco cuestionarios para la detección de la EPOC. De los 695 sujetos, el 34 % tenían EPOC según el experto que les diagnosticó usando la aplicación web. Sólo el 42 % de los pacientes del grupo con EPOC había recibido un diagnóstico previo de la enfermedad y el 19 % de los pacientes del grupo sin EPOC había sido diagnosticado erróneamente con la enfermedad. Conclusión. Se desarrolló una aplicación web que muestra información demográfica y clínica, así como datos espirométricos, para facilitar el proceso de diagnóstico de la EPOC en entornos de atención primaria.

Association of pulmonary function with functional capacity among middle-aged women / Associação da função pulmonar com capacidade funcional em mulheres de meia idade

INTRODUCTION: Age-related decline in pulmonary function and functional capacity is seen in adults. The menopausal process leads to a decline in pulmonary function and functional capacity which is essential in maintaining independence in daily life. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to explore the association of pulmonary function with functional capacity among middle-aged women. METHODS: One hundred and eight female participants aged 40­55 years were included in this cross-sectional study; depending on their menstrual history participants were classified as premenopausal and postmenopausal. After initial screening and assessment, six-minute walk test (6MWT) and pulmonary function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC) were recorded as per standardised guidelines. The mean and standard deviation for all continuous variables were calculated. Correlations were estimated using Pearson's coefficient of correlation. A comparison of premenopausal and postmenopausal groups was done by independent t-test. A two-tailed p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: There were significant differences in values of six-minute walk distance (6MWD) and pulmonary function values of pre and postmenopausal women (p < 0.05). The Pearson coefficient of correlation showed significant association of FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC with 6MWD among middle-aged women. There was fair positive correlation of FEV1 (r = 0.391, p = 0.002) and FEV1/ FVC (r = 0.395, p = 0.002) with 6MWD among postmenopausal women. CONCLUSION: There exists a fair positive correlation of pulmonary function with 6MWD among middle-aged women particularly postmenopausal women. Early screening of respiratory health and functional capacity should be initiated for middle-aged women as a preventive strategy.

INTRODUÇÃO: O declínio da função pulmonar e da capacidade funcional relacionado à idade é observado em adultos. O processo menopausal leva ao declínio da capacidade pulmonar e funcional, essencial para a manutenção da independência na vida diária. OBJETIVO: O presente estudo teve como objetivo explorar a associação da função pulmonar com a capacidade funcional em mulheres de meia idade. MÉTODOS: Cento e oito participantes do sexo feminino com idade entre 40 e 55 anos foram incluídas neste estudo transversal; dependendo da história menstrual, as participantes foram classificadas como pré-menopausa e pós-menopausa. Após triagem e avaliação inicial, teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6M) e função pulmonar (VEF1, CVF, VEF1/CVF) foram registrados de acordo com diretrizes padronizadas. Foram calculados média e desvio padrão para todas as variáveis contínuas. As correlações foram estimadas pelo coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. A comparação do grupo pré-menopausa e pós-menopausa foi feita por teste t independente. Um valor de p bicaudal < 0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: Houve diferenças significativas nos valores da distância caminhada de seis minutos (DC6M) e nos valores da função pulmonar de mulheres pré e pós-menopausa (p < 0,05). O coeficiente de correlação de Pearson mostrou associação significativa de VEF1, CVF e VEF1/CVF com a DC6M entre mulheres de meia idade. Houve correlação positive moderada do VEF1 (r = 0,391, p = 0,002) e VEF1/CVF (r = 0,395, p = 0,002) com a DC6M entre mulheres na pós-menopausa. CONCLUSÃO: Existe correlação positiva moderada da função pulmonar com a DC6M entre mulheres de meia idade, particularmente mulheres na pós-menopausa. O rastreio precoce da saúde respiratória e da capacidade funcional deve ser iniciado nas mulheres de meia idade como estratégia preventiva.

Prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among non-smokers in rural areas of Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh, India

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic progressive disease of the airways and lung parenchyma and the risk factors include both genetic and environmental factors. Tobacco smoking has remained the most important risk factor associated with it. The occurrence of COPD in non-smokers is not widely appreciated, even though its relative burden is higher in developing countries than developed countries. There is limited information on the risk factors associated with spirometrically confirmed COPD in non-smokers in the general population and more data from population-based studies are needed. Hence, the objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of COPD and associated risk factors among non-smokers in rural areas of Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Methods: This cross-sectional study with multi-stage random sampling was conducted among 552 non-smoking participants aged 18 years and above in rural areas of Lucknow. It was conducted using pre-designed questionnaire for data collection. COPD assessments were done using a combination of clinical history and portable spirometry. Data collected was analysed using SPSS 23.0 version. Results: FEV1/FVC <0.7 was used to define COPD which yielded a prevalence of 8.5 percent among non-smoking participants. Gender, occupation, type of family, presence of ex-smoker, presence of dampness and livestock in the house were the risk factors that showed statistically significant association with COPD. Conclusions: The higher prevalence noted in this study highlights the need for enhanced community-based screening programme for secondary prevention of COPD among adults.

Playful strategy to improve the quality of spirometry and analysis of reference values in a group of schoolchildren from Asunción / Estrategia lúdica para mejorar la calidad de las espirometría y análisis de los valores de referencia en un grupo de escolares de Asunción

Introducción. Los niños requieren especial dedicación para lograr espirometrías de calidad. Objetivo. Este trabajo evalúa la frecuencia de maniobras aceptables en escolares, la utilidad de gestos de incentivo para optimizar la obtención de pruebas de alta calidad y realiza un análisis de ajuste a varias ecuaciones de referencia. Materiales y Métodos. Se realizaron maniobras espiratorias forzadas en un grupo de escolares de Asunción- Paraguay, escogiendo variables recomendadas para la interpretación en un espirómetro portátil, para evaluar la frecuencia de pruebas de calidad. Aquellos que no consiguieron estudios aceptables, fueron sometidos a un entrenamiento con silbato en rollo (juguete) para evaluar el desempeño ulterior. Los resultados de alta calidad fueron pareados a valores esperados determinados por diversas ecuaciones buscando evaluar el grado de adecuación. Resultados. De 113 escolares, el 58,4% pudo conseguir maniobras de grado A o B. Después del estímulo con el silbato en rollo, la frecuencia de estudios aceptables ascendió a 79,6%. Los parámetros de referencia con mejor ajuste fueron aquellos determinados por la Global Lung Initiative (GLI). Conclusión. Los incentivos lúdicos son una alternativa para optimizar la obtención de pruebas de espirometría en escolares, que con el uso de parámetros de GLI adecuarían el manejo clínico de ciertas enfermedades respiratorias.

Introduction. Children require special dedication to achieve high quality spirometry. Objective. This work evaluates the frequency of acceptable maneuvers in schoolchildren, the usefulness of incentive gestures to optimize the obtaining of high-quality tests, and performs an analysis of adjustments to several reference equations. Material and Methods. Forced expiratory maneuvers were performed in a group of schoolchildren from Asunción, Paraguay, choosing variables recommended for interpretation in a portable spirometer, to evaluate the frequency of high quality tests. Those who did not achieve acceptable studies were subjected to training with a roll whistle (toy) to evaluate their subsequent performance. The high-quality results were matched to expected values determined by various equations to evaluate adequacy. Results. Of 113 schoolchildren, 58,4% were able to achieve grade A or B maneuvers. After the stimulus with the roll whistle, the frequency of acceptable studies rose to 79,6%. The reference parameters with the best fit were those determined by the Global Lung Initiative (GLI). Conclusion. Playful incentives are an alternative to obtaining acceptable spirometry tests in schoolchildren, which, with the use of GLI parameters, would adjust the clinical management of certain respiratory diseases.

Comparaison de deux équations de référence pour le diagnostic des anomalies spirométriques à Cotonou / NA

Introduction : L'interprétation de la spirométrie se base sur des équations de référence, prenant en compte l'âge, le sexe, la taille et la race. Au CNHU-PPC, deux équations ont été utilisées ces dernières années : celles de l'American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society "ATS/ERS" (publiées en 1983, actualisées en 1993), et celles du Global Lung Initiative (GLI) 2012, désormais recommandées par plusieurs sociétés savantes. Notre étude visait à comparer les interprétations de spirométries basées sur ces équations. Matériel et méthodes : Nous avons mené une étude rétrospective descriptive, avec recrutement exhaustif des spirométries réalisées au CNHU-PPC du 1er Janvier 2018 au 31 Mars 2020. Les données recueillies furent analysées avec le logiciel R. Le coefficient Kappa a été calculé pour apprécier la performance des équations ATS/ERS par rapport au GLI 2012. Pour tous les tests statistiques, la différence était statistiquement significative pour une p-value inférieure à 0,05. Résultats : Les 955 spirométries recensées concernaient une population majoritairement féminine (sex-ratio=0,7) et jeune (âge moyen=44±20 ans). Il y avait plus de spirométries normales selon les équations ATS/ERS (53,6%, versus 53,0% selon GLI 2012 ; Kappa=0,71). Un TVO était objectivé dans 18,6% des cas selon l'ATS/ERS (versus 18,0% selon GLI 2012, Kappa=0,90). Il y avait moins de TVR selon l'ATS/ERS (21,3%, versus 29 % selon GLI 2012 ; Kappa=0,72), et moins de TVM selon l'ATS/ERS (5,3%, versus 6,6% selon GLI 2012 ; Kappa=0,79). Les proportions d'asthmatiques étaient identiques (12,3%). Les équations ATS/ERS ont objectivé moins de BPCO et de maladies restrictives (respectivement 4,6% et 21,3%) que le GLI 2012 (respectivement 5,8% avec Kappa=0,74, et 29% avec Kappa =0,72). Conclusion : Les équations ATS/ERS objectivent moins d'anomalies spirométriques que celles du GLI 2012 au CNHU-PPC. Des études ultérieures s'imposent pour intégrer les valeurs de référence béninoises au GLI 2012, actuellement récommandées pour l'interprétation de la spirométrie

Introduction: Spirometry's interpretation is based on reference equations, taking into account age, sex, height and race. At the CNHU-PPC, two equations have been used in recent years: those of the American Thoracic Society / European Respiratory Society "ATS/ERS"(published in 1983, updated in 1993), and more recently, those of the Global Lung Initiative (GLI) 2012, now recommended by several learned societies. Objectives: Our study aimed to compare interpretations of spirometry based on these equations. Material and methods: We carried out a descriptive retrospective study, with exhaustive recruitment of the spirometry done at the CNHU-PPC from January 1, 2018, to March 31, 2020. The data collected were analyzed with the software R. The Kappa coefficient was calculated to assess the performance of the ATS/ERS equations compared to GLI 2012. Results: The 955 spirometries recorded concerned a predominantly female (sex ratio=0.7) and young (mean age=44±20 years) population. There was more normal spirometry according to the ATS/ERS (53.6%, vs 53.0% according to GLI 2012; Kappa=0.71). An obstructive ventilatory disorder was objectified in 18.6% of cases according to ATS/ERS (vs 18.0% for GLI 2012, Kappa=0.90). There was less restrictive ventilation disorder according to ATS/ERS (21.3%, vs 29% for GLI 2012; Kappa=0.72), and less mixed ventilatory disorder according to ATS/ERS (5.3%, vs 6.6% for GLI 2012; Kappa=0.79). The proportions of asthma patients were identical (12.3%). ATS/ERS objectified less COPD and restrictive diseases (respectively 4.6% and 21.3%) than GLI 2012 (respectively 5.8% with Kappa=0.74, and 29% with Kappa=0.72).

Respiratory system parameters in children with low severity cystic fibrosis: is there early involvement in relation to healthy peers? / Parâmetros do sistema respiratório em crianças com fibrose cística de baixa gravidade: há acometimento precoce em relação a pares saudáveis?

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare and analyze pulmonary function and respiratory mechanics parameters between healthy children and children with cystic fibrosis. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study included healthy children (HSG) and children with cystic fibrosis (CFG), aged 6-13 years, from teaching institutions and a reference center for cystic fibrosis in Florianópolis/SC, Brazil. The patients were paired by age and sex. Initially, an anthropometric evaluation was undertaken to pair the sample characteristics in both groups; the medical records of CFG were consulted for bacterial colonization, genotype, and disease severity (Schwachman-Doershuk Score — SDS) data. Spirometry and impulse oscillometry were used to assess pulmonary function. Results: In total, 110 children were included, 55 in each group. In the CFG group, 58.2% were classified as excellent by SDS, 49.1% showed the ΔF508 heterozygotic genotype, and 67.3% were colonized by some pathogens. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between both groups (p<0.05) in most pulmonary function parameters and respiratory mechanics. Conclusions: Children with cystic fibrosis showed obstructive ventilatory disorders and compromised peripheral airways compared with healthy children. These findings reinforce the early changes in pulmonary function and mechanics associated with this disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar e analisar parâmetros de função pulmonar e de mecânica respiratória entre escolares saudáveis e com fibrose cística (FC). Métodos: Estudo transversal que incluiu escolares saudáveis (GES) e com FC (GFC), com idades entre seis e 13 anos, provenientes de instituições de ensino e de um centro de referência da FC em Florianópolis/SC, Brasil, pareados por idade e sexo, respectivamente. Inicialmente, conduziu-se avaliação antropométrica para pareamento e caracterização de ambos os grupos e, no GFC, consultou-se prontuário médico para registro dos dados de colonização bacteriana, genótipo e gravidade da doença (Escore de Schwachman-Doershuk — ESD). Para a avaliação da função pulmonar, realizou-se espirometria e a avaliação da mecânica respiratória foi conduzida por meio do sistema de oscilometria de impulso. Resultados: Participaram 110 escolares, 55 em cada grupo. No GFC, 58,2% foram classificados pelo ESD como excelentes, 49,1% apresentaram genótipo ∆F508 heterozigoto e 67,3% eram colonizados por alguma patógeno. Houve diferença significativa (p<0,05) na maioria dos parâmetros de função pulmonar e de mecânica respiratória entre os grupos. Conclusões: Escolares com FC apresentaram distúrbio ventilatório obstrutivo e com comprometimento de vias aéreas periféricas, em comparação aos escolares hígidos. Esse evento reforça o início precoce da alteração de função pulmonar e de mecânica respiratória nessa enfermidade, evidenciados pelos achados desta investigação.

Impulse oscillometry in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: an exploratory study

Abstract Introduction Studies suggest peripheral airway abnormalities in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). Impulse Oscillometry (IOS) is a noninvasive and sensitive technique for assessing the small airways. It evaluates the impedance of the respiratory system ‒ Resistance (R) and reactance (X) ‒ to a pulse of sound waves sent to the lungs, in a range of frequencies (5‒20 Hz). Method Resistance variables: R5, R20, R5-R20 and reactance variables: AX (reactance area) and Fres (resonance frequency). The aim is to evaluate R and X in patients with idiopathic PAH (IPAH) and to investigate whether there is a correlation between IOS and spirometry. Results Thirteen IPAH patients and 11 healthy subjects matched for sex and age underwent IOS and spirometry. IPAH patients had lower FVC and FEV1 values (p < 0.001), VEF1/CVF (p = 0.049) and FEF 25-75 (p = 0.006) than healthy patients. At IOS, IPAH patients showed lower tidal volumes and higher AX (p < 0.05) compared to healthy individuals, and 53.8 of patients had R5-R20 values ≥ 0.07 kPa/L/s. Correlation analysis: X5, AX, R5-R20 and Fres showed moderate correlation with FVC (p = 0.036 r = 0.585, p = 0.001 r = -0.687, p = 0.005 r = -0.726 and p = 0.027 r = -0.610); Fres (p = 0.012 r = -0.669) and AX (p = 0.006 r = -0.711) correlated with FEV1; [R5 and R20, (R5-R20)] also correlated with FEV1 (p < 0.001 r = -0.573, p = 0.020 r = -0.634 and p = 0.010 r = -0.683, respectively) in the IPAH group. There were also moderate correlations of FEF 25-75 % with Z5 (p = 0.041), R5 (p = 0.018), Fres (p = 0.043) and AX (p = 0.023). Discussion Patients showed changes suggestive of increased resistance and reactance in the IOS compared to healthy individuals, and the IOS findings showed a good correlation with spirometry variables.

Lung function and quality of life one year after severe COVID-19 in Brazil

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate symptoms, lung function, and quality of life of a cohort of patients hospitalized for severe COVID-19 12 months after hospital admission. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. We included severe COVID-19 survivors hospitalized in one of three tertiary referral hospitals for COVID-19 in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Participants were submitted to lung function and six-minute walk tests and completed the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire. Results: The whole sample comprised 189 COVID-19 survivors (mean age = 59.6 ± 13.4 years) who had been admitted to a ward only (n = 96; 50.8%) or to an ICU (n = 93; 49.2%). At 12 months of follow-up, 43% of patients presented with dyspnea, 27% of whom had a restrictive ventilatory disorder and 18% of whom presented with impaired DLCO. There were no significant differences in FVC, FEV1, and TLC between the survivors with or without dyspnea. However, those who still had dyspnea had significantly more impaired DLCO (14.9% vs. 22.4%; p < 0.020) and poorer quality of life. Conclusions: After one year, survivors of severe COVID-19 in a middle-income country still present with high symptom burden, restrictive ventilatory changes, and loss of quality of life. Ongoing follow-up is needed to characterize long COVID-19 and identify strategies to mitigate its consequences.

Valores de referencia de espirometría forzada de adultos residentes sobre o bajo 1500 m s. n. m.: revisión sistemática / Reference values of forced spirometry of adult residents above or below 1500 m.a.s.l.: systematic review

Introducción: La espirometría es una prueba de función pulmonar usada en la valoración de programas de rehabilitación para evaluar exposiciones a tóxicos y alérgenos, en estudios epidemiológicos y en el desarrollo de ecuaciones de referencia en poblaciones específicas; estos valores pueden variar de acuerdo con la altura. Objetivo: Establecer las diferencias entre los valores de referencia de espirometría forzada en población adulta residentes en alturas mayores y menores a 1500 metros sobre el nivel del mar. Métodos: Revisión sistemática, se encontraron 536 estudios, se evaluaron 66 en texto completo, 33 en calidad metodológica con las listas de chequeo Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies y Quality Assessment of Case-Control Studies; 21 estudios fueron seleccionados para la revisión y 12 surtieron metanálisis. Resultados: Se contó con 48 923 participantes de alturas entre 2,4 y 4440 m s. n. m. Hay diferencias iniciales al relacionar la altura (+/-1500 m s. n. m) con el VEF1 (hombres: DM 0,29; IC: 0,03-0,55; mujeres: DM 0,27; IC: -0,07-0,60) y los valores de referencia con el sexo: CVF (DM 1,31; IC: 1,24-1,37) y VEF1 (DM: 1,03; IC: 0,95-1,11). Se reportó alta heterogeneidad y riesgo de sesgo de publicación. Discusión: Estas diferencias se dan en función de aspectos antropométricos y fisiológicos como la aclimatación y el envejecimiento pulmonar. Los mecanismos que influyen en estos cambios son la adaptación genética, molecular, fisiológica y anatómica, que permiten compensar los efectos de la hipoxia aguda o crónica, lo cual aumenta la ventilación alveolar y los valores espirométricos. Conclusiones: Los valores de referencia de espirometría varían de acuerdo con la altura (mayores en alturas > 1500 m s. n. m) y el sexo (más elevados en hombres). Es necesario contar con evidencias más amplias y contundentes en la temática.

Introduction: Spirometry is a lung function test used in the evaluation of rehabilitation programs to evaluate exposures to toxics and allergens in epidemiological studies and in the development of reference equations in specific populations; these values may vary according to height. Objective: To establish the differences between the reference values of forced spirometry in the adult population living at altitudes greater than and less than 1,500 meters above sea level. Methods: Systematic review a total of 536 studies were found; 66 were assessed in full text and 33 were assessed for methodological quality using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies and Quality Assessment of Case-Control Studies checklists; 21 studies were selected for the review and 12 provided meta-analyses. Results: There were 48,923 participants from heights between 2.4 and 4,440 m.a.s.l. There are initial differences when relating height (+/-1,500 m.a.s.l.) with FEV1 (men: MD 0.29; CI: 0.03-0.55; women: MD 0.27; CI: -0.07-0 .60); and the reference values with gender: FVC (MD 1.31, CI: 1.24-1.37) and FEV1 (MD: 1.03, CI: 0.95-1.11). High heterogeneity and risk of publication bias are reported. Discussion: These differences occur based on anthropometric and physiological aspects such as acclimatization and lung aging. The mechanisms that influence these changes are genetic, molecular, physiological and anatomical adaptations that allow compensation for the effects of acute or chronic hypoxia, which increases alveolar ventilation and spirometric values. Conclusions: The spirometry reference values vary according to height (higher at heights >1,500 m.a.s.l.) and sex (higher in men). It is necessary to have broader and more convincing evidence on the subject.

Analysis of pulmonary function in post-Covid-19 patients at a university hospital / Análise da função pulmonar de pacientes com síndrome pós-covid-19 em um hospital universitário

Objective: Evaluate the spirometry pattern of patients who persisted with respiratory symptoms after infection with SARS-Cov-2. Methods: Cross-sectional, observational, retrospective study in a single center, approved by the local Ethics Committee (registration number: 5,120,720). Patients who underwent spirometry due to Post-Covid Syndrome were evaluated to analyze the spirometric pattern presented. The following were collected: exam identification data, sex, age, symptom time, the need for mechanical ventilation, and quality of spirometry, in addition to the following exam parameters: FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEV 25-75/FVC, and FEV 75, evaluating the Lower Limit of Normality, pre-bronchodilator and post-bronchodilator values. Results: Data from 72 patients were collected. Of these, 55.5% of patients had spirometry results within normal limits. The most frequent respiratory alteration was obstructive respiratory disorder, present in 29.2% of the patients. Conclusions: The presence of dyspnea in patients with normal spirometry may indicate further evaluation of lung function and other etiologies for dyspnea (AU).

Objetivo: Avaliar o padrão de espirometria de pacientes que persistiram com sintomas respiratórios após a infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2. Métodos: Estudo transversal, observacional e retrospectivo realizado em um único centro, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética local (número do parecer: 5.120.720). Foram avaliados pacientes submetidos a espirometria devido à Síndrome Pós-Covid, a fim de analisar o padrão espirométrico apresentado. Os seguintes dados foram coletados: identificação do exame, sexo, idade, tempo de sintomas, necessidade de ventilação mecânica, qualidade da espirometria, além dos seguintes parâmetros do exame: CVF, VEF1, VEF1/CVF, VEF 25-75/CVF e VEF 75, avaliando o Limite Inferior da Normalidade, valores pré-broncodilatador e pós-broncodilatador. Resultados: Foram coletados dados de 72 pacientes. Destes, 55,5% apresentaram resultados espirométricos dentro dos limites normais. A alteração respiratória mais frequente foi o distúrbio ventilatório obstrutivo, presente em 29,2% dos pa-cientes. Conclusões: A presença de dispneia em pacientes com espirometria dentro da normalidade pode indicar uma avaliação adicional da função pulmonar, assim como outras etiologias para a dispneia (AU).

Parâmetros espirométricos podem predizer a incidência de fragilidade em pessoas idosas? / Can spirometric parameters predict the incidence of frailty in the elderly people?

Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre indicadores espirométricos e a incidência da síndrome de fragilidade em pessoas idosas. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo com delineamento longitudinal realizado em 2014-2019, com uma amostra de estudo de 104 pessoas idosas. A variável dependente foi a síndrome de fragilidade, avaliada por meio do fenótipo de Fried et al. e as variáveis independentes foram os indicadores espirométricos, sendo eles a Capacidade Vital Forçada (CVF), Pico de Fluxo Expiratório (PFE), Volume Expiratório Forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1), relação VEF1/CVF e o Fluxo Expiratório Forçado 25%-75% (FEF25-75%). Resultados: A incidência de pessoas idosas frágeis foi de 16,3% em ambos os sexos, sendo que o sexo masculino apresentou melhores indicadores de função pulmonar que as mulheres. Apesar disso, observamos que não houve associação entre a síndrome de fragilidade e os indicadores espirométricos (p>0,05). Conclusão: Os indicadores espirométricos não são preditores de fragilidade em pessoas idosas residentes na comunidade, após cinco anos de seguimento.

Objective: To verify the association between spirometric indicators and the incidence of frailty syndrome in elderly people. Methods: This is a study with a longitudinal design carried out in 2014-2019, with a study sample of 104 elderly people. The dependent variable was the frailty syndrome, assessed using the phenotype of Fried et al. and the independent variables were the spirometric indicators, namely Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio and Forced Expiratory Flow 25%-75 % (FEF25-75%). Results: The incidence of frail elderly people was 16.3% in both genders, with males presenting better lung function indicators than females. Despite this, we observed that there was no association between the frailty syndrome and the spirometric indicators (p>0.05). Conclusion: Spirometric indicators are not predictors of frailty in community-dwelling elderly people after five years of follow-up.

Lung Function Tests in Infants and Children

Lung function testing is an essential modality of investigation in children as it provides objective evidence of lung disease/ health. With advances in technology, various tests are available that can aid in the diagnosis of lung disease, assess the progression and response to therapy and document the lung development and evolving lung diseases in infants. This narrative review discusses lung function tests in infants and children. Currently, lung function tests can be performed in every age group, from neonates to the elderly. Spirometry and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) are the most employed tests in children more than six years of age. Spirometry helps diagnose and monitoring of both obstructive and restrictive diseases. There is a need for expertise to perform and interpret spirometry correctly. The forced oscillation technique (FOT) or impulse oscillometry (IOS) is done with tidal volume breathing and is feasible even in preschool children. Their utility is mainly restricted to asthma in children at present. Lung function tests can be performed in neonates, infants and children using infant pulmonary function test (PFT) equipment, although their availability is limited. Diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is a valuable tool in restrictive lung diseases. Lung volumes can be assessed by body plethysmography and multiple washout technique. The latter can also assess lung clearance index. It is essential to perform and interpret the lung function test results correctly and correlate them with the clinical condition for optimum treatment and outcome.

COMPARISON OF LUNG FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH BRONCHIECTASIS DURING ACUTE EXACERBATION AND IN CONVALESCENCE - A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Background- Bronchiectasis is a common chronic respiratory disease. A noticeable drop in lung function during exacerbations and recovery during convalescence has been revealed in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Hence this study was planned with the objectives to compare lung functions during acute exacerbation and convalescence in patients with bronchiectasis. This was a prospective cohort study Methods- conducted in 50 patients over a duration of 18 months. Measurement of exacerbations and convalescence visits comprised of spirometry, sputum bacteriology, serum and sputum biomarker. Student's paired t test, Fischer's exact test or Chi square test was used to analyze the signicance of difference. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically signicant. In this study, Results- there was a signicant association of mMRC dyspnoea score in exacerbation and in convalescence. (p <0.0001). The analysis showed that mMRC dyspnoea score was shifted to lower scores in convalescence compared to that in exacerbation. FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC) and 6 MWT distance were signicantly lower in patients in exacerbation as compared in convalescence. Conclusion- There was marked improvement in lung functions in convalescence as compared to patients in acute exacerbation

Ecuación de referencia espirométrica en varones de 2 regiones del norte peruano ubicadas entre 0 a 100 metros sobre el nivel del mar: Estudio transversal

Objetivo: Determinar los valores de referencia de espirometría y formular una ecuación de predicción de valores espirométricos en población económicamente activa (PEA) de regiones con altitud 0-100 m.s.n.m. Métodos: Se seleccionaron a los participantes del estudio considerando los criterios de selección del estudio. Se recogió la información sobre las variables consideradas en el estudio: Capacidad Vital Forzada (CVF) y Volumen Espiratorio Forzado en el primer Segundo (VEF1), datos sociodemográficos y medidas antropométricas. Se dividió a la muestra en dos grupos para poder formular la ecuación de referencia y para evaluar su confiabilidad en un subgrupo de validación mediante las pruebas de correlación intraclase, T de Student para muestras pareadas y los gráficos de Bland-Altman. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 1052 participantes varones. Los rangos normales de CVF y VEF1 calculados fueron de CVF de 3.48 -5.47 y VEF1 de 2.83 - 4.41. Mediante una regresión lineal múltiple, se obtuvieron las siguientes fórmulas: CVF = 2.206 - 0.131 (Altitud Geográfica) - 0.014 (Edad) + 0.045 (Talla) y VEF1 = 1.589 - 0.08 (Altitud Geográfica) - 0.015 (Edad) + 0.033 (Talla). En los análisis de confiabilidad, se encontró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en las medias entre los valores predichos por la ecuación y los valores reales, aunque en los gráficos de Bland-Altman no se evidenció un sesgo significativo y los coeficientes de correlación intraclase (CVF-ICC: 0.69; VEF1-ICC: 0.70) se encontraban dentro de un rango adecuado. Conclusiones: Las ecuaciones de CVF y VEF1 desarrolladas permiten predecir adecuadamente los valores espirométricos en PEA masculina de las regiones incluidas en el estudio.

Objective: Determine the spirometry reference values and formulate an equation to predict spirometric values in the economically active population (EAP) in regions with an altitude of 0-100 m.a.s.l. Materials and Methods: Study participants were selected considering the study selection criteria. Information was collected on the variables considered in the study: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second (FEV1), sociodemographic data and anthropometric measurements. The sample was divided into 2 groups to be able to formulate the reference equation and to assess its reliability in a validation subgroup using intraclass correlation tests, Student's t-test for paired samples, and Bland-Altman plots. Results: 1052 male participants were selected. The normal ranges for FVC and FEV1 calculated were FVC 3.48 - 5.47 and FEV1 2.83 - 4.41. Using multiple linear regression, the following formulas were obtained: FVC = 2.206 - 0.131 (Geographic Altitude) - 0.014 (Age) + 0.045 (Height) and FEV1 = 1.589 - 0.08 (Geographic Altitude) - 0.015 (Age) + 0.033 (Height). In the reliability analyses, a statistically significant difference was found in the means between the values predicted by the equation and the real values, although the Bland-Altman plots did not show a significant bias and the intraclass correlation coefficients (FVC- ICC: 0.69; FEV1-ICC: 0.70) were within an adequate range. Conclusions: The developed FVC and FEV1 equations allow adequate prediction of spirometric values in male PEA of the regions included in the study.

Clinico-epidemiological profile and disease severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among patients in a primary care centre at central Kerala

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic disease usually caused by significant exposure to noxious particles and are not fully reversible. COPD represents an important public health challenge that is both preventable and treatable. The aim of this study was to describe the clinico-epidemiological profile of COPD patients and to assess the disease severity using spirometry among respiratory symptomatic in a primary care centre. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among the COPD patients attending monthly pulmonology clinic in Urban Health centre, Ettumanoor, Kottayam from June to August 2019. The study comprised of 120 patients with symptoms suggestive of COPD attending the monthly respiratory clinic. Severity of airflow limitation assessed using spirometry results based on GOLD criteria. Clinical and epidemiological data were collected using a semi structured interview schedule. Results: The mean age of the participants were 64� and 51.7% were males. The median duration of COPD symptoms for the study participants was 10 (IQR 11) years and 62.5% were having productive cough with dyspnoea as the major symptom. All males except two were smokers and the mean packyears were 42�years. As per GOLD guidelines 44 (36.7%) had severe disease, 11 (9.2%) had mild, 39 (32.5%) had moderate and 26 (21.7%) had very severe disease. The average forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) in study subjects was 54.8�5. Conclusions: In view of the emerging public health risk, COPD need to be diagnosed and managed at the earliest to slow down the progression.

Enfermedad de Pompe y compromiso respiratorio / Pompe Disease and Respiratory Impairment

Introducción: El compromiso respiratorio en la enfermedad de Pompe es una de sus manifestaciones más frecuentes, tiene un impacto negativo en la calidad de vida y facilita la aparición de múltiples complicaciones. Se puede presentar como parte evolutiva de la enfermedad o incluso ser el síntoma inicial de la patología. Contenidos: La presentación clínica del compromiso respiratorio en la enfermedad de Pompe se caracteriza por disnea, ortopnea, cefalea y tos, y sus cambios paraclínicos incluyen hipercapnia, policitemia, elevación del índice de apnea/hipopnea, así como disminución de la capacidad vital y de las presiones inspiratoria y espiratorias máximas. El compromiso respiratorio es causado principalmente por disfunción muscular (especialmente el diafragma) y alteración de la regulación del sistema nervioso central. Conclusiones: Es fundamental la valoración acuciosa inicial de los patrones respiratorios y por supuesto su seguimiento, el cual dependerá del tipo de progresión de la disfunción respiratoria (rápida o lenta) o del requerimiento específico para cada paciente (ventilación no invasiva o invasiva).

Introduction: Respiratory compromise in Pompe disease is one of the most frequent manifestations, which has a negative impact on quality of life and leads to multiple complications. This can occur as an evolutionary part of the disease, or even be the initial symptom of the pathology. Contents: Its clinical presentation is characterized by dyspnea, orthopnea, headache, and cough, and its paraclinical changes include hypercapnia, polycythemia, elevated apnea/hypopnea index, decreased vital capacity, and decreased maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressures. Respiratory compromise is caused mainly by muscular dysfunction (especially the diaphragm) and alteration of regulation of the central nervous system. Conclusions: An initial careful assessment of respiratory patterns is essential, and of course their follow-up, that will depend of the type of progression of respiratory dysfunction (rapid or slow) or the specific requirement for each patient (non-invasive or invasive ventilation).

Six-minute walk test for assessment of work capability in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A cross-sectional comparative study

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a systemic disorder causing morbidity, disability, and mortality throughout the world. Although, spirometry parameters have been used for decades to diagnose COPD as well as to grade the severity of this disease, others factors such as the BMI, degree of inflation, and exercise capacity have become important outcome measures for extra-pulmonary manifestations. The 6-min walk test (6MWT) is considered as a simple test to assess the functional capacity of COPD patients. The aim of our study was to implement 6MWT in patients of COPD in our setup to predict morbidity. Aims and Objectives: The objective of our study was to implement 6MWT in patients of COPD in our setup to predict morbidity. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted on thirty COPD patients and thirty control subjects. All the subjects were investigated through history taking, clinical examination, spirometry, and 6MWT in the Department of Physiology, R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version-21. Results: The values of the spirometry parameters were significantly reduced in cases than in the controls (P < 0.05). The values of 6-min walk distance as well as 6-min work (6MWORK) were also significantly reduced in cases than in the controls (P = 0.0023 and P = 0.0028, respectively). A strong positive correlation was found between forced vital capacity and 6MWORK (r = 0.556), BMI, and 6MWORK (r = 0.84) in patients of COPD. Conclusion: Our study substantiates that 6MWT can be implemented in our set up to assess the work capability and thus to predict morbidity in patients of COPD.