Normal Predicted Values of Pulmonary Function Test in Healthy Korean Children

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We performed a pulmonary function test with simple, computerized spirometry composed of pneumotachometry and evaluated the predicted normal values of air flow rates and lung volumes in healthy Korean children. We calculated each of the simple and complex linear and logarithmic regression equations setting the predicted values. METHODS: Four hundred and fifty-two healthy children were enrolled from December, 1994 to August, 1995. We measured air flow rates (FVC, FEV1, PEFR, FEF25-75) and lung volumes (VC, ERV, IC, VE). Data was analyzed according to sex, age, height, weight, and body surface area. RESULTS: In 452 children (male 282, female 170), the age distribution was from 8 through 19 years, the height from 121cm to 180cm and the weight from 21kg to 79kg. We could get determinant coefficients between parameter and air flow rates. In boys, height showed the highest determinant coefficient in examing air flow rates, followed by age, body surface area and weight in order. In girls, body surface area showed the highest determinant coefficient in examing air flow rates, followed by height, weight, and age in order. A determination coefficient to the parameter was the highest with FVC. We could get determinant coefficients between parameter and lung volumes. Boys showed high determinant coefficient with only IC, girls with VC and IC. In examing IC, height showed the highest determinant coefficient, followed by body surface area and weight in order. Predicted values of pulmonary function test were generally higher in boys than in girls. CONCLUSION: After performing the pulmonary function test in healthy Korean children, we report their normal values of air flow rates, lung volumes and regression equations for the predicted values.