Abstract
Background: Assessment of COPD is primarily based on spirometric and clinical parameters with peripheral airways poorly represented in current diagnostics. Impulse oscillometry (IOS) promisingly assessed peripheral resistance. Ventilation heterogeneity could be determined using MBW. Being established in children with cystic fibrosis, little data is available for adults. We aimed to evaluate MBW as compared to conventional lung function testing and IOS in COPD. Methods: Body plethysmography and IOS were performed in 53 participants. Lung clearance index (LCI) and indices of acinar and conductive ventilation heterogeneity (Sacin, Scond) were calculated from MBW. Results: LCI significantly differed between 32 COPD patients (10.9±2.0) and 21 controls (7.3±0.9, p -1 , p -1 , p=0.03). Conclusion: LCI and Sacin are feasible for the determination of ventilation heterogeneity in COPD representing the severity graduation of current diagnostic concepts. Further evaluation should aim at a potential clinical benefit in early detection of obstructive disorders and small airways dysfunction.
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