Can Peak Expiratory Flow Predict Airflow Obstruction in Children With Asthma

摘要: Study Objectives. A recent trend in the treatment of asthma has been widespread, independent use peak expiratory flow (PEF). We examined whether PEF monitoring creates inaccuracies assessment children with moderate to severe asthma. Methods. compared negative predictive value relation forced volume 1 second (FEV1), and between 25% 75% vital capacity (FEF25–75%) at different levels air trapping as determined by residual over total lung ratio (RV/TLC). Results. The study included 244 patients, ages 4 18 years all classes severity, FEV1ranging from 28% 134% predicted value. analyzed 367 sets pulmonary function tests performed throughout a 3-year period. Thirty percent patients normal had an abnormal FEV1 or FEF25–75%. As increased, ability predict FEF25–75% readings fell 83% 53%. was significantly lower for RV/TLC >30 Conclusions. results this suggest that it might be possible identify whom is likely give false-negative results. increases, causes misleading reassurance function. Furthermore, poor predictiveness obtained when values 80% age are considered normal.