An Investigation of Pulmonary Functions and Functional Capacity in Children with Cystic Fibrosis in Acute Pulmonary Exacerbation Period

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Purpose: Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) may have symptoms such as increased cough and sputum production, decreased pulmonary function in acute pulmonary exacerbation period. The purpose of this study was to assess pulmonary functions and functional capacity in children with CF during acute pulmonary exacerbation period. Methods: Eighteen children with CF who had pulmonary exacerbation (age=12.94±2.57 years, 8 females, 10 males) were reviewed. Patients’ physical and clinical characteristics were recorded. Pulmonary functions were assessed by using spirometry. Functional capacity was evaluated by 1-minute sit to stand test (STST). Results: The mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) (%) was 58.50%, forced vital capacity (FVC) (%) was 65.22%, peak expiratory flow (PEF) (%) was 62,50% and forced mid-expiratory flow (FEF25-75%) (%) was 39.77% in children with CF. According to the disease severity classification, 77.7% had mild obstructive lung disease. Children with CF were performed 24.88 sit to stand repetition during the test. They reached 41.87% of their predicted STST repetition. No significant correlation was found between the STST repetition and FEV1 (%) (r=-0.041; p=0.87), FVC (%) (r=-0.085; p=0.73), PEF (%) (r=-0,216; p=0,38) and FEF25-75% (%) (r=-0.215; p=0.39) in children with CF. Conclusion: All children with CF in acute pulmonary exacerbation period had decreased functional capacity. In addition, mild obstructive lung disease was found in the majority of children. Effects of physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs during the acute pulmonary exacerbation period on lung function and functional capacity should be investigated.