Revised 11/1/2007
Chapter 5: Contents Summary Introduction Cases Interpretation Repeatability Chapter 6
Chapter 5. Clinical Examples Introduction
An approach to interpretation of spirometry test results with clinical examples. As the reviewer examines the spirometry results, other information can be assessed and used as part of the interpretation and clinical correlation.
A. What was the reason for the testing? Did the patient complain of respiratory symptoms? Was the testing done as part of a medical surveillance program or as a pre-placement physical examination? Was the patient planning on having surgery and pulmonary risks for surgery were being determined?
B. What are the physical characteristics of the patient as reported? Age, height, weight, sex? Do the spirometric values being reported "make sense" given the physical characteristics?
C. Evaluate the test quality as reported. At least 3 acceptable curves with repeatability criteria met. Any other comment noted by the technician performing the test?
D. Compare the spirometric results with predicted values including the LLN for FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC%. Be aware of what predicted values are being used for comparison.
E. What pattern of impairment is identified? Obstructive, Restrictive, Mixed?
F. If impairment is determined, what severity of impairment exists?
G. Are there previous results for comparison? Has there been a "significant" change in lung function compared to previous values?
The
Interpretation Algorithm
is used to
diagnosis either an obstructive or restrictive lung disease pattern and is used
in the interpretation of the following cases which you should review:
Please note that at the top of each screen are
Interpretation and
Repeatability links that
provide a pop-up screens for use in reviewing the cases. You may minimize
or move these screens to the side for use as you are reviewing the basis for the
interpretation.
View Five Cases - (Baker's asthma, Former Pipefitter, Bus Driver, Popcorn Factory Worker, and Invalid Test)
Return to Chapter 5 Summary
Next Chapter (Chapter 6)
Copyright 2007; Revised 10/18/2007