APLICACIÓN DE LA FISIOLOGÍA RESPIRATORIA EN LOS EXÁMENES DE FUNCIÓN PULMONAR

Abstract

Having an adequate understanding of respiratory physiology is useful to better interpret pulmonary function tests and thus optimize their clinical usefulness. In this review we will see some concepts that will allow us to better understand the most important tests in the evaluation of a child with chronic lung disease. Among the frequent examinations in pediatrics, spirometry provides good information to objectify airway obstruction and identify if there is a significant bronchodilator response. The flow-volume curve can suggest the location of the airway obstruction. To assess whether there is a restrictive, mixed or air trapping component, it is advisable to complement spirometry with tests that allow the measurement of lung volumes and capacities. Tests to quantify bronchial hyperreactivity are also common in pediatrics, mainly in children with suspected bronchial asthma. In less frequent clinical situations, it is necessary to evaluate the main function of the lung parenchyma, which corresponds to gas exchange, and in this case the diffusion capacity can be measured. It is recommended to review the series of articles on respiratory pathophysiology previously published in this journal. The technical details of the execution and interpretation of the exams can be reviewed in the specialized guides. Examinations in infants and preschoolers are not addressed in this review because they are not commonly used in clinical practice.