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The European Respiratory Journal Jul 2022Appropriate interpretation of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) involves the classification of observed values as within/outside the normal range based on a reference... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Appropriate interpretation of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) involves the classification of observed values as within/outside the normal range based on a reference population of healthy individuals, integrating knowledge of physiological determinants of test results into functional classifications and integrating patterns with other clinical data to estimate prognosis. In 2005, the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and European Respiratory Society (ERS) jointly adopted technical standards for the interpretation of PFTs. We aimed to update the 2005 recommendations and incorporate evidence from recent literature to establish new standards for PFT interpretation.
METHODS
This technical standards document was developed by an international joint Task Force, appointed by the ERS/ATS with multidisciplinary expertise in conducting and interpreting PFTs and developing international standards. A comprehensive literature review was conducted and published evidence was reviewed.
RESULTS
Recommendations for the choice of reference equations and limits of normal of the healthy population to identify individuals with unusually low or high results are discussed. Interpretation strategies for bronchodilator responsiveness testing, limits of natural changes over time and severity are also updated. Interpretation of measurements made by spirometry, lung volumes and gas transfer are described as they relate to underlying pathophysiology with updated classification protocols of common impairments.
CONCLUSIONS
Interpretation of PFTs must be complemented with clinical expertise and consideration of the inherent biological variability of the test and the uncertainty of the test result to ensure appropriate interpretation of an individual's lung function measurements.
Topics: Bronchodilator Agents; Humans; Lung Volume Measurements; Respiratory Function Tests; Respiratory System; Spirometry; United States
PubMed: 34949706
DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01499-2021 -
Seminars in Respiratory and Critical... Oct 2023While static mechanical forces govern resting lung volumes, dynamic forces determine tidal breathing, airflow, and changes in airflow and lung volume during normal and...
While static mechanical forces govern resting lung volumes, dynamic forces determine tidal breathing, airflow, and changes in airflow and lung volume during normal and abnormal breathing. This section will examine the mechanisms, measurement methodology, and interpretation of the dynamic changes in airflow and lung volume that occur in health and disease. We will first examine how the total work of breathing can be described by the parameters of the equation of motion, which determine the pressure required to move air into and out of the lung. This will include a detailed description of airflow characteristics and airway resistance. Next, we will review the changes in pressure and flow that determine maximal forced inspiration and expiration, which result in the maximal flow-volume loop and the clinically important forced expired volume in 1 second. We will also assess the mechanisms and interpretation of bronchodilator responsiveness, dynamic hyperinflation, and airways hyperresponsiveness.
Topics: Humans; Lung; Bronchodilator Agents
PubMed: 37429331
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770058 -
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.) Feb 2016The lung is a common site of complications of systemic connective tissue disease (CTD), and lung involvement can present in several ways. Interstitial lung disease (ILD)... (Review)
Review
The lung is a common site of complications of systemic connective tissue disease (CTD), and lung involvement can present in several ways. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary hypertension are the most common lung manifestations in CTD. Although it is generally thought that interstitial lung disease develops later on in CTD it is often the initial presentation ("lung dominant" CTD). ILD can be present in most types of CTD, including rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, polymyositis or dermatomyositis, Sjögren's syndrome, and mixed connective tissue disease. Despite similarities in clinical and pathologic presentation, the prognosis and treatment of CTD associated ILD (CTD-ILD) can differ greatly from that of other forms of ILD, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) can present as a primary vasculopathy in pulmonary arterial hypertension or in association with ILD (PH-ILD). Therefore, detailed history, physical examination, targeted serologic testing, and, occasionally, lung biopsy are needed to diagnose CTD-ILD, whereas both non-invasive and invasive assessments of pulmonary hemodynamics are needed to diagnose pulmonary hypertension. Immunosuppression is the mainstay of treatment for ILD, although data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to support specific treatments are lacking. Furthermore, treatment strategies vary according to the clinical situation-for example, the treatment of a patient newly diagnosed as having CTD-ILD differs from that of someone with an acute exacerbation of the disease. Immunosuppression is indicated only in select cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension related to CTD; more commonly, selective pulmonary vasodilators are used. For both diseases, comorbidities such as sleep disordered breathing, symptoms of dyspnea, and cough should be evaluated and treated. Lung transplantation should be considered in patients with advanced disease but is not always feasible because of other manifestations of CTD and comorbidities. Clinical trials of novel therapies including immunosuppressive therapies are needed to inform best treatment strategies.
Topics: Autoimmune Diseases; Connective Tissue Diseases; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation; Humans; Lung Diseases, Interstitial; Lung Transplantation; Palliative Care; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Prognosis; Respiratory System Agents; Risk Factors
PubMed: 26912511
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.h6819 -
European Respiratory Review : An... Jun 2017Since its first description, the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been acknowledged to be a major clinical problem in respiratory medicine. From July 2015... (Review)
Review
Since its first description, the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been acknowledged to be a major clinical problem in respiratory medicine. From July 2015 to July 2016 almost 300 indexed articles were published on ARDS. This review summarises only eight of them as an arbitrary overview of clinical relevance: definition and epidemiology, risk factors, prevention and treatment. A strict application of definition criteria is crucial, but the diverse resource-setting scenarios foster geographic variability and contrasting outcome data. A large international multicentre prospective cohort study including 50 countries across five continents reported that ARDS is underdiagnosed, and there is potential for improvement in its management. Furthermore, epidemiological data from low-income countries suggest that a revision of the current definition of ARDS is needed in order to improve its recognition and global clinical outcome. In addition to the well-known risk-factors for ARDS, exposure to high ozone levels and low vitamin D plasma concentrations were found to be predisposing circumstances. Drug-based preventive strategies remain a major challenge, since two recent trials on aspirin and statins failed to reduce the incidence in at-risk patients. A new disease-modifying therapy is awaited: some recent studies promised to improve the prognosis of ARDS, but mortality and disabling complications are still high in survivors in intensive care.
Topics: Humans; Lung; Respiratory Distress Syndrome; Respiratory System Agents; Risk Factors; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 28446599
DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0116-2016 -
European Respiratory Review : An... Sep 2018Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) frequently occur together and their coexistence is associated with worse outcomes than... (Review)
Review
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) frequently occur together and their coexistence is associated with worse outcomes than either condition alone. Pathophysiological links between COPD and CVD include lung hyperinflation, systemic inflammation and COPD exacerbations. COPD treatments may produce beneficial cardiovascular (CV) effects, such as long-acting bronchodilators, which are associated with improvements in arterial stiffness, pulmonary vasoconstriction, and cardiac function. However, data are limited regarding whether these translate into benefits in CV outcomes. Some studies have suggested that treatment with long-acting β-agonists and long-acting muscarinic antagonists leads to an increase in the risk of CV events, particularly at treatment initiation, although the safety profile of these agents with prolonged use appears reassuring. Some CV medications may have a beneficial impact on COPD outcomes, but there have been concerns about β-blocker use leading to bronchospasm in COPD, which may result in patients not receiving guideline-recommended treatment. However, there are few data suggesting harm with these agents and patients should not be denied β-blockers if required. Clearer recommendations are necessary regarding the identification and management of comorbid CVD in patients with COPD in order to facilitate early intervention and appropriate treatment.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Cardiovascular Agents; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cardiovascular System; Comorbidity; Female; Humans; Lung; Male; Middle Aged; Prognosis; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Respiratory System Agents; Risk Factors
PubMed: 30282634
DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0057-2018 -
European Respiratory Review : An... Sep 2019Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, fibrosing interstitial lung disease, characterised by progressive scarring of the lung and associated with... (Review)
Review
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, fibrosing interstitial lung disease, characterised by progressive scarring of the lung and associated with a high burden of disease and early death. The pathophysiological understanding, clinical diagnostics and therapy of IPF have significantly evolved in recent years. While the recent introduction of the two antifibrotic drugs pirfenidone and nintedanib led to a significant reduction in lung function decline, there is still no cure for IPF; thus, new therapeutic approaches are needed. Currently, several clinical phase I-III trials are focusing on novel therapeutic targets. Furthermore, new approaches in nonpharmacological treatments in palliative care, pulmonary rehabilitation, lung transplantation, management of comorbidities and acute exacerbations aim to improve symptom control and quality of life. Here we summarise new therapeutic attempts and potential future approaches to treat this devastating disease.
Topics: Animals; Comorbidity; Disease Progression; Humans; Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis; Indoles; Lung; Lung Transplantation; Molecular Targeted Therapy; Palliative Care; Pyridones; Respiratory System Agents; Respiratory Therapy; Risk Factors; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 31484664
DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0021-2019 -
The European Respiratory Journal Feb 2020Oscillometry (also known as the forced oscillation technique) measures the mechanical properties of the respiratory system (upper and intrathoracic airways, lung tissue...
Oscillometry (also known as the forced oscillation technique) measures the mechanical properties of the respiratory system (upper and intrathoracic airways, lung tissue and chest wall) during quiet tidal breathing, by the application of an oscillating pressure signal (input or forcing signal), most commonly at the mouth. With increased clinical and research use, it is critical that all technical details of the hardware design, signal processing and analyses, and testing protocols are transparent and clearly reported to allow standardisation, comparison and replication of clinical and research studies. Because of this need, an update of the 2003 European Respiratory Society (ERS) technical standards document was produced by an ERS task force of experts who are active in clinical oscillometry research.The aim of the task force was to provide technical recommendations regarding oscillometry measurement including hardware, software, testing protocols and quality control.The main changes in this update, compared with the 2003 ERS task force document are 1) new quality control procedures which reflect use of "within-breath" analysis, and methods of handling artefacts; 2) recommendation to disclose signal processing, quality control, artefact handling and breathing protocols ( number and duration of acquisitions) in reports and publications to allow comparability and replication between devices and laboratories; 3) a summary review of new data to support threshold values for bronchodilator and bronchial challenge tests; and 4) updated list of predicted impedance values in adults and children.
Topics: Adult; Bronchial Provocation Tests; Bronchodilator Agents; Child; Humans; Lung; Oscillometry; Respiration
PubMed: 31772002
DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00753-2019 -
European Respiratory Review : An... Mar 2019Patients with certain types of fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) are at risk of developing a progressive phenotype characterised by self-sustaining fibrosis,... (Review)
Review
Patients with certain types of fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) are at risk of developing a progressive phenotype characterised by self-sustaining fibrosis, decline in lung function, worsening quality of life, and early mortality. It has been proposed that such progressive fibrosing ILDs, which show commonalities in clinical behaviour and in the pathogenetic mechanisms that drive progressive fibrosis, may be "lumped" together for the purposes of clinical research and, potentially, for treatment. At present, no drugs are approved for the treatment of ILDs other than nintedanib and pirfenidone for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. For other progressive fibrosing ILDs, the mainstay of drug therapy is immunosuppression. However, it is postulated that, once the response to lung injury in fibrosing ILDs has reached the stage at which fibrosis has become progressive and self-sustaining, targeted antifibrotic therapy would be required to slow disease progression. Nintedanib, an intracellular inhibitor of tyrosine kinases, has shown antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory and vascular remodelling effects in several non-clinical models of fibrosis, irrespective of the trigger for the injury. Ongoing clinical trials will provide insight into the role of antifibrotic treatment with nintedanib or pirfenidone in the management of fibrosing ILDs with a progressive phenotype.
Topics: Disease Progression; Health Status; Humans; Indoles; Lung; Lung Diseases, Interstitial; Phenotype; Pulmonary Fibrosis; Pyridones; Quality of Life; Respiratory System Agents; Risk Factors; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 30814139
DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0100-2018 -
The Israel Medical Association Journal... Dec 2017
Topics: Administration, Inhalation; Airway Management; Bronchiolitis; Drug Compounding; Humans; Infant; Nebulizers and Vaporizers; Respiratory System Agents; Saline Solution, Hypertonic; Self Care
PubMed: 29235745
DOI: No ID Found -
Respiratory Care Sep 2007Mucus secretion is the first-line defense against the barrage of irritants that inhalation of approximately 500 L of air an hour brings into the lungs. The inhaled soot,... (Review)
Review
Mucus secretion is the first-line defense against the barrage of irritants that inhalation of approximately 500 L of air an hour brings into the lungs. The inhaled soot, dust, microbes, and gases can all damage the airway epithelium. Consequently, mucus secretion is extremely rapid, occurring in tens of milliseconds. In addition, mucus is held in cytoplasmic granules in a highly condensed state in which high concentrations of Ca(2+) nullify the repulsive forces of the highly polyanionic mucin molecules. Upon initiation of secretion and dilution of the Ca(2+), the repulsion forces of the mucin molecules cause many-hundred-fold swelling of the secreted mucus, to cover and protect the epithelium. Secretion is a highly regulated process, with coordination by several molecules, including soluble N-ethyl-maleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins, myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate (MARCKS), and Munc proteins, to dock the mucin granules to the secretory cell membrane prior to exocytosis. Because mucus secretion appears to be such a fundamental airway homeostatic process, virtually all regulatory and inflammatory mediators and interventions that have been investigated increase secretion acutely. When given longer-term, many of these same mediators also increase mucin gene expression and mucin synthesis, and induce goblet cell hyperplasia. These responses induce (in contrast to the protective effects of acute secretion) long-term, chronic hypersecretion of airway mucus, which contributes to respiratory disease. In this case the homeostatic, protective function of airway mucus secretion is lost, and, instead, mucus hypersecretion contributes to pathophysiology of a number of severe respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis.
Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Asthma; Bronchi; Cystic Fibrosis; Humans; Inhalation Exposure; Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins; Membrane Proteins; Mucus; Myristoylated Alanine-Rich C Kinase Substrate; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive; Respiratory Mucosa; Respiratory System Agents; SNARE Proteins
PubMed: 17716382
DOI: No ID Found