Oscillometry Reference Values for Children and Adolescents

Abstract

BackgroundOscillometry devices allow quantification of respiratory function at tidal breathing but device-specific reference equations are scarce: the present study aims to create sex-specific oscillometric reference values for children and adolescents using the Resmon PRO FULL device.MethodsHealthy participants (N=981) aged 6 to 17 years of the Austrian LEAD general population cohort were included. Subjects had normal weight (BMI≤99th percentile) and normal lung volumes (total lung capacity (TLC)≥lower limit of normal). Oscillometry data were collected using a single frequency mode of 8 Hz. Sex-specific prediction equations were developed for total (tot), inspiratory (insp) and expiratory (exp) resistance (R) and reactance (X) as well as for the modulus of impedance (Z) value using the LMS (lambda, mu, sigma) method. Height was used as a single covariate.ResultsReference equations for all oscillometry parameters were created for Caucasian children aged 6 to 17 years with a height span from 101 to 183 cm and a lung volume span from 1.7 L to 8.8 L TLC. R and Z values progressively decrease and X values increase with increasing height. Oscillometry parametersversuslung volume curves differ from thoseversusheight curves. Stratified for lung size, no sex differences are found for oscillometry parameters.ConclusionOur study provides reference values for oscillometry parameters in children and adolescents using strictly defined criteria for weight and lung volumes. No sex related differences in oscillometry parameters corrected for height or lung size are found.