Pulmonary Function Test Values Research Articles

Predictive Value of Intraoperative Pulmonary Function Tests for Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Predictive Value of Intraoperative Pulmonary Function Tests for Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Novel Surface Topographic Assessment of Lung Volume and Pulmonary Function Tests in Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Preliminary Study.

Severe spinal deformity results in restrictive pulmonary disease from thoracic distortions and lung-volume limitations. Though spirometry and body plethysmography are widely accepted tests for pulmonary function tests (PFTs), they are time-consuming and require patient compliance. This study investigates whether surface topographic [surface topography (ST)] measurements of body volume difference (BVD) and torso volume difference between maximum inhale and exhale correlate to values determined on PFTs. This study included patients with idiopathic scoliosis and thoracic/thoracolumbar curves ≥40 degrees. Patients received ST scans, clinical examinations, and EOS biplanar radiographs on the same day. PFTs were performed within 3 months of ST/radiographic analysis. Univariate linear regression analysis was used to examine relationships between BVD, PFT values, and mean curves. Sixteen patients (14.6 ± 2.2 y, 69% females) with idiopathic scoliosis and mean thoracic/thoracolumbar curves of 62 degrees ± 15˚ degrees (45 degrees to 93 degrees) were assessed. BVD displayed statistically high-positive positive correlations with forced vital capacity ( R = 0.863, P < 0.0001), forced expiratory volume in 1 second ( R = 0.870, P < 0.001), vital capacity ( R = 0.802, P < 0.0001), and TLC ( R = 0.831, P < 0.0001. Torso volume difference showed similarly high positive correlations to forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, vital capacity, and TLC, but not residual volume. No correlations emerged between the mean thoracic/thoracolumbar curve and BVD or PFT values. This study strongly endorses further investigation into ST scanning as an alternative to traditional PFTs for assessing pulmonary volumes. The noncontact and noninvasive nature of ST scanning presents a valuable alternative method for analyzing thoracic volume, particularly beneficial for patients unable to cooperate with standard PFTs. Level II-prognostic.

Assessing pulmonary function in ALS using electrical impedance tomography

Objective: We sought to determine whether thoracic electrical impedance tomography (EIT) could characterize pulmonary function in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, including those with facial weakness. Thoracic EIT is a noninvasive, technology in which a multi-electrode belt is placed across the chest, producing real-time impedance imaging of the chest during breathing. Methods: We enrolled 32 ALS patients and 32 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) without underlying lung disease. All participants had EIT measurements performed simultaneously with standard pulmonary function tests (PFTs), including slow and forced vital capacity (SVC and FVC) in upright and supine positions and maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIPs and MEPs, respectively). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the immediate reproducibility of EIT measurements and Pearson’s correlations were used to explore the relationships between EIT and PFT values. Results: Data from 30 ALS patients and 27 HCs were analyzed. Immediate upright SVC reproducibility was very high (ICC 0.98). Correlations were generally strongest between EIT and spirometry measures, with R values ranging from 0.64 to 0.82 (p < 0.001) in the ALS cohort. There were less robust correlations between EIT values and both MIPs and MEPs in the ALS patients, with R values ranging from 0.33 to 0.44. There was no significant difference for patients with and without facial weakness. There were no reported adverse events. Conclusion: EIT-based pulmonary measures hold the promise of providing an alternative approach for lung function assessment in ALS patients. Based on these early results, further development and study of this technology are warranted.

Pulmonary volumes and signs of chronic airflow limitation in quantitative computed tomography.

Computed tomography (CT) offers pulmonary volumetric quantification but is not commonly used in healthy individuals due to radiation concerns. Chronic airflow limitation (CAL) is one of the diagnostic criteria for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where early diagnosis is important. Our aim was to present reference values for chest CT volumetric and radiodensity measurements and explore their potential in detecting early signs of CAL. From the population-based Swedish CArdioPulmonarybioImage Study (SCAPIS), 294 participants aged 50-64, were categorized into non-CAL (n = 258) and CAL (n = 36) groups based on spirometry. From inspiratory and expiratory CT images we compared lung volumes, mean lung density (MLD), percentage of low attenuation volume (LAV%) and LAV cluster volume between groups, and against reference values from static pulmonary function test (PFT). The CAL group exhibited larger lung volumes, higher LAV%, increased LAV cluster volume and lower MLD compared to the non-CAL group. Lung volumes significantly deviated from PFT values. Expiratory measurements yielded more reliable results for identifying CAL compared to inspiratory. Using a cut-off value of 0.6 for expiratory LAV%, we achieved sensitivity, specificity and positive/negative predictive values of 72%, 85% and 40%/96%, respectively. We present volumetric reference values from inspiratory and expiratory chest CT images for a middle-aged healthy cohort. These results are not directly comparable to those from PFTs. Measures of MLD and LAV can be valuable in the evaluation of suspected CAL. Further validation and refinement are necessary to demonstrate its potential as a decision support tool for early detection of COPD.

Early complications in scoliosis surgery and relation to preoperative factors: A single-center retrospective study.

In this study, we aimed to investigate the perioperative complications of the patients who underwent scoliosis surgery in our hospital and the factors that may affect the outcome. Between 2014 and 2018, scoliosis patients recorded data was examined retrospectively. Age, gender, height, body weight, comorbidity, Cobb index, scoliosis etiology, operation time, preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin, hematocrit, leukocyte, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, coagulation value, operation time, level of instrumentation, intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, blood transfusion, intraoperative fluid administration, preoperative pulmonary function test values, blood gas values, urine outputs, hospital (LOS) and post anesthesia care unit stays, complications and mortality rates were examined. The files of 77 patients (48 female, 29 male) were retrospectively analyzed. The average age was 19.54 ± 16.32 years and 98.7% were elective surgery. The mean of LOS was 13.55 ± 9.13 days. As the preoperative hematocrit value decreases, LOS increases significantly. In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, smokers and high ASA scores, LOS is prolonged in patients with previous operations. As intraoperative colloid administration increased, crystalloid and blood products increased, it was also observed that the amount of crystalloid increased LOS. As the amount of intraoperative colloid or red blood cell administration increases, the duration of surgery and anesthesia increases, also increases the duration of post anesthesia care unit. Compared to patients with complications (n = 29) to the patients without complications (n = 47), it was found that they had longer anesthesia, and surgery times, also longer LOS times (P < .05). Our study showed that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the preoperative period, smoking, high ASA score, excessive use of colloid, prolonged duration of surgery and anesthesia, and long intubation durations increase the length of hospital stay. Preoperative comorbidity is directly related to postoperative complications and causes longer hospitalization after reconstructive scoliosis surgery.

Dynamic Digital Radiography Pulmonary Function Testing: A Machine Learning Lung Study Alternative

BackgroundCommon diagnostic tests for pulmonary disorders include chest radiography and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Although essential, these tests only offer a static assessment. Chest dynamic digital radiography (DDR) integrates lung and diaphragm motion in one study with limited radiation exposure. DDR is relatively easy to obtain, but barriers to its clinical adoption include time consuming manual analysis and unclear correlation with PFTs. Research questionsCan a machine learning pipeline automate DDR analysis? What is the strength of the relationship between PFT-measures and automated DDR-based lung area measurements? Study design and MethodsPFT and DDR studies were obtained in fifty-five participants. We developed an analysis pipeline utilizing convolutional neural networks (CNN) capable of quantifying lung areas in DDR images to generate DDR-based PFTs (dPFTs). PFT and dPFT measures were correlated in patients with normal, obstructive and restrictive lung physiology. ResultsWe observed statistically significant (p values < 1x10-6), strong correlations between dPFT areas and PFT volumes including TLC (r=0.764), FEV1 (r=0.591), VC (r=0.763) and FRC (r=0.756). Automated DDR and lung shape tracking revealed differences between normal, restrictive and obstructive physiology using diaphragm curvature indices and strain-analysis measurements. Linear regressions allowed for derivation of PFT values from dPFT measurements. InterpretationStatistically significant correlations found between dPFTs and PFTs suggest that dPFTs can act as a surrogate to PFTs when these are not available or unable to be performed. This study contributes to the potential integration of DDR as a reliable alternative to PFTs.

Markers of Inflammation, Tissue Damage, and Fibrosis in Individuals Diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Pneumonia: A Cohort Study.

Previous studies have noted that persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) experience persistent lung dysfunction after an episode of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that inflammation during pneumonia triggers increased tissue damage and accelerated pulmonary fibrosis, resulting in a gradual loss of lung function. We carried out a prospective cohort study of people diagnosed with CAP and/or HIV between 2016 and 2018 in three clinical institutions in Medellín, Colombia. Clinical data, blood samples, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were collected at baseline. Forty-one patients were included, divided into two groups: HIV and CAP (n = 17) and HIV alone (n = 24). We compared the concentrations of 17 molecules and PFT values between the groups. Patients with HIV and pneumonia presented elevated levels of cytokines and chemokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, IL-1RA, IL-10, IP-10, MCP-1, and MIP-1β) compared to those with only HIV. A marked pulmonary dysfunction was evidenced by significant reductions in FEF25, FEF25-75, and FEV1. The correlation between these immune mediators and lung function parameters supports the connection between pneumonia-associated inflammation and end organ lung dysfunction. A low CD4 cell count (<200 cells/μL) predicted inflammation and lung dysfunction. These results underscore the need for targeted clinical approaches to mitigate the adverse impacts of CAP on lung function in this population.

The impact of respiratory reactance in oscillometry on survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

BackgroundIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease with a poor prognosis. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) aid in evaluating the disease status of IPF. The clinical significance of oscillometry measurements in interstitial lung diseases has recently been reported. Our previous study showed that respiratory reactance (Xrs) measured by oscillometry reflected disease severity and predicted subsequent lung capacity decline in patients with IPF. However, the direct impact of Xrs on survival needs to be determined, and there are currently no reference values in oscillometry to predict prognosis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between oscillometry measurements, particularly Xrs, and survival in patients with IPF and to determine the cutoff values of Xrs that predict 3-year survival.MethodsWe analyzed the relationship between the measured values of PFT and oscillometry derived from 178 patients with IPF. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses were performed to investigate the relationships between clinical indices at the time of the first oscillometry and survival. We performed the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to set the optimized cutoff values of Xrs for 3-year survival prediction. We examined the discriminating power of cutoff values of Xrs on survival using the Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test.ResultsXrs components, especially in the inspiratory phase (In), significantly correlated with the PFT values. In the multivariate analyses, Xrs (all of reactance at 5 Hz [X5], resonant frequency [Fres], and low-frequency reactance area [ALX] in the inspiratory phase) had a significant impact on survival (X5, p = 0.003; Fres, p = 0.016; ALX, p = 0.003) independent of age, sex, and other prognostic factors derived from the univariate analysis. The area under the ROC curve was 0.765, 0.759, and 0.766 for X5 In, Fres In, and ALX In, with cutoff values determined at − 0.98, 10.67, and 5.32, respectively. We found significant differences in survival after dividing patients using each of the cutoff values of Xrs.ConclusionsIn patients with IPF, Xrs measured by oscillometry significantly impacted survival. We also determined the cutoff values of Xrs to discriminate patients with poor prognoses.

Impulse Oscillometry as an Alternative Lung Function Test for Hospitalized Adults.

Impulse oscillometry (IOS) is a noninvasive technique that measures lung physiology independently of patient effort. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the utility of IOS parameters in comparison with pulmonary function testing (PFT) among hospitalized subjects, with emphasis on obstructive and small airway diseases. Sixty-one subjects hospitalized either with unexplained dyspnea or for pre-surgery evaluation were included in the study. All subjects underwent PFTs and IOS test. The correlation between IOS results and PFTs was examined in different subgroups. The ability of IOS parameters to predict abnormal PFTs was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and optimal cutoff values were calculated. IOS results were found to correlate with PFT values. Subgroup analysis revealed that these correlations were higher in younger (age < 70) and non-obese (body mass index < 25kg/m2) subjects. The resonant frequency was an independent predictor and had the best predictive ability for abnormal FEV1/FVC (area under the ROC curve 0.732 [95% CI 0.57-0.90], optimal cutoff 17 Hz, 87% sensitivity, 62% specificity) and abnormal forced expiratory flow during the middle half of the FVC maneuver (area under the ROC curve 0.667 [95% CI 0.53-0.81], optimal cutoff 15 Hz, 77% sensitivity, 54% specificity). Area of reactance and the difference in respiratory resistance at 5 Hz and 20 Hz also showed a good predictive ability for abnormal FEV1/FVC (area under the ROC curve 0.716 and 0.730, respectively). We found that the IOS performed well in diagnosing small airway and obstructive diseases among hospitalized subjects. IOS might serve as an alternative to standard PFTs in non-cooperative or dyspneic hospitalized patients.

Significance of slow vital capacity, difference between slow and forced vital capacity, ratio of FEV1/SVC with increasing age and BMI in healthy males and females

Background: The slow vital capacity (SVC), forced vital capacity (FVC) difference, and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)/SVC ratio are crucial for understanding respiratory health, especially in mild airway obstruction. These parameters are more reliable than traditional measures and are influenced by age and body mass index (BMI). Investigating their relationship can improve diagnostic accuracy and health-care interventions. Aims and Objectives: (i) To record peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), FVC, FEV1 of expiration, FEV1/FVC ratio, forced expiratory flow rate (FEF25-75%), mean forced expiratory flow rate from 0.2 to 1.2 l of volume expired (FEF.2-1.2), SVC, and find the difference between SVC and FVC, ratio of FEV1/SVC. (ii) To correlate SVC, SVC-FVC, FEV1/SVC, and other pulmonary function tests (PFTs) with age, gender, and BMI emphasizing their importance in detecting airway obstruction. (iii) To assess these known indicators of airflow obstruction in healthy individuals to gain knowledge of changing lung health with respect to advancing age, gender, and BMI. Materials and Methods: The study included 200 individuals, comprising both men and women aged between 18 and 60 years, who were in good health. The sample was divided into five age groups, and participants were classified into categories of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese based on their BMI. Standard procedures were employed to record anthropometric measurements. PEFR was measured using Wright’s peak flow meter, whereas FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of FVC (FEF25-75%), forced expiratory flow at 2-1.2 l (FEF.2-1.2), and SVC were assessed using an expirograph (Helios 401, RMS, India). Adequate statistical analysis was conducted on the gathered data. Results: There was a highly significant difference in the means of SVC, SVC-FVC, FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs (P &lt; 0.000) over the five age groups by ANOVA and a significant difference between younger and older age groups analyzed by post hoc test. It also showed a highly significant difference in the mean values of SVC, FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs over the categories of BMI and a significant difference between normal and obese groups by multiple comparisons. A small increase in mean values of SVC-FVC was seen in overweight, obese, and underweight compared to the normal BMI group. Females showed reduced mean values of SVC, FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs compared to males. (P &lt; 0.000). The mean value of SVC-FVC in females is greater than in males (P &lt; 0.01), which suggest that the tendency for airway obstruction may be greater in women compared to men due to smaller airway diameter and diffusion surface. PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75%, FEF.2-1.2, SVC, and FEV1/SVC were negatively correlated with age. SVC-FVC was positively correlated with age (r = 0.338, P &lt; 0.000). There was a negative correlation between PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEF25-75%, FEF.2-1.2, SVC, and BMI. Conclusions: PFT serves as a crucial diagnostic tool in assessing respiratory health, with parameters such as FVC and FEV1 commonly utilized. However, SVC is gaining recognition for its nuanced insights into lung function. This article delves into the significance of SVC, highlights the differences between SVC and FVC, and explores the relationship between FEV1/SVC ratio, age, and BMI in healthy individuals. The current research was undertaken due to a scarcity of existing studies and demonstrated that SVC, the ratio of FEV1/SVC, and other PFTs diminish with age progression and increasing BMI. In addition, females exhibited decreased lung function, with a greater disparity between SVC and FVC than males.

Transbronchial Lung Cryobiopsy Performed with Cone Beam Computed Tomography Guidance Versus Fluoroscopy: A Retrospective Cohort Review.

Determining the cause of interstitial lung disease (ILD) remains challenging. While surgical lung biopsy remains the gold standard approach, risks associated with it may be prohibitive. Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) is a minimally invasive alternative with an improved safety profile and acceptable diagnostic accuracy. We retrospectively assessed whether the use of Cone Beam computed tomography guidance for TBLC (TBLC-CBCT) improves safety and diagnostic yield compared to performing TBLC with fluoroscopic guidance (TBLC-F). A retrospective cohort review of 120 patients presenting for evaluation of newly diagnosed ILD was performed. Demographic data, pulmonary function test values, chest imaging pattern, procedural information, and final multidisciplinary discussion (MDD) diagnosis were recorded. 62 patients underwent TBLC-F and 58 underwent TBLC-CBCT. Patients undergoing TBLC-CBCT were older (67.86 ± 10.97 vs 61.45 ± 12.77years, p = 0.004) and had a higher forced vital capacity percent predicted (73.80 ± 17.32% vs 66.00 ± 17.45%, p = 0.03) compared to the TBLC-F group. The average probe-to-pleura distance was 5.1 ± 2.3mm in the TBLC-CBCT group with 4.0 ± 0.3 CBCT spins performed. Pneumothorax occurred more often in the TBLC-F group (n = 6, 9.7%) compared to the TBLC-CBCT group (n = 1, 1.7%, p = 0.06). Grade 2 bleeding only occurred in the TBLC-F group (n = 4, 6.5%). A final MDD diagnosis was obtained in 89% (n = 57) of TBLC-F patients and 95% (n = 57) of TBLC-CBCT patients. TBLC-CBCT appears to be safer compared to TBLC-F with both approaches facilitating an MDD diagnosis. Further studies from multiple institutions randomizing patients to each modality are needed to confirm these findings.

Sex-Linked Differences in Pulmonary Functions of COVID-19 Patients After a Six-Minute Walk Test.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) predominantly impacts the respiratory system. Historically, numerous lung diseases have shown sex-related differences throughout their progression. This study aimed to identify sex-linked disparities in pulmonary function tests (PFTs) among individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 when subjected to a six-minute walk test (6MWT). In this observational cross-sectional study, we analyzed 61 participants, consisting of 39 (64%)males and 22 (36%) females, all of whom previously contracted COVID-19 three months or more prior. We measured vitals such as blood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, and PFT values before and after the 6MWT. The post-6MWT evaluation revealed notable mean differences between males and females in parameters systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p = 0.003), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p = 0.026), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (p = 0.038), forced vital capacity (FVC) (p = 0.041), and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) index (p = 0.011). PFT outcomes indicated sex-based variations among post-COVID-19 subjects. Specifically, post-stress values for FEV1, FVC, MVV index, SBP, and DBP were more elevated in males than in females. However, females presented with higher oxygen saturation levels post-COVID-19 compared to males. Using multiple linear regression modeling, sex was not found to be a strong predictor of PFT results. However, individual regression analyses for FEV1, FVC, and MVV index consistently showcased higher values in males. In conclusion, significant PFT differences exist between males and females after recovery from COVID-19 when exposed to stress induction via the 6MWT.

Characterization of adolescents with functional respiratory disorders and prior history of SARS-CoV-2

BackgroundThe SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has caused significant pulmonary morbidity and mortality in the adult population. Children and adolescents typically show milder symptoms; however, a relevant proportion of them report persistent pulmonary symptoms even after mild SARS-CoV-2 infection. Functional respiratory disorders may be relevant differential diagnoses of persistent dyspnea. This study aims at characterizing functional respiratory disorders that may arise after SARS-CoV-2 infection regarding their clinical presentation and pulmonary function tests as well as gaining insights into the clinical course after initiation of appropriate therapy.MethodsThis study retrospectively identified all patients referred to an outpatient clinic for pediatric pulmonology with functional respiratory disorders manifesting after proven SARS-CoV-2 infection between January 1, 2022, and October 31, 2022. Clinical history, thorough clinical examination regarding breathing patterns, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were taken into consideration to diagnose functional respiratory disorders.ResultsTwenty-five patients (44% female) with mean (m) age = 12.73 years (SD ± 1.86) who showed distinctive features of functional respiratory disorders after SARS-CoV-2 infection (onset at m = 4.15 (± 4.24) weeks after infection) were identified. Eleven patients showed thoracic dominant breathing with insufficient ventilation, and 4 patients mainly had symptoms of inducible laryngeal obstruction. The rest (n = 10) showed overlap of these two etiologies. Most patients had a flattened inspiratory curve on spirometry and slightly elevated residual volume on body plethysmography, but values of PFTs were normal before and after standardized treadmill exercise testing. Patients were educated about the benign nature of the condition and were offered rebreathing training. All patients with follow-up (n = 5) showed normalization of the breathing pattern within 3 months.ConclusionsFunctional respiratory disorders are important differential diagnoses in persisting post-SARS-CoV-2 dyspnea in adolescents. A combination of clinical history, detailed examination of breathing patterns, and pulmonary function tests are helpful to correctly diagnose these conditions. Reassurance and rebreathing training are the mainstay of the therapy. The clinical course is favorable.

Utility of routine pulmonary function test after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation in lymphoma

This study aims to evaluate the predictive value of routine pulmonary function testing (PFT) at the 12-month mark post-autologous hematopoietic cell transplant (AHCT) in identifying clinically significant lung disease in lymphoma survivors. In 247 patients, 173 (70%) received BEAM (carmustine, etoposide, cytarabine, melphalan), and 49 (20%) received TBC (thiotepa, busulfan, cyclophosphamide) conditioning regimens. Abnormal baseline PFT was noted in 149 patients (60%). Thirty-four patients had a significant decline (reduction of >/= 20% in DLCO or FEV1 or FVC) in post-AHCT PFT, with the highest incidence in the CNS lymphoma group (39%). The incidence of clinically significant lung disease post-transplant was low at 2% and there was no association between abnormal pre- and 1-year post-transplant PFTs with the development of clinical lung disease. While this study illustrates the impact of treatment regimens on PFT changes, it did not demonstrate a predictive value of scheduled PFTs in identifying clinically significant post-AHCT lung disease.

Changes in pulmonary function in lung cancer patients after segmentectomy or lobectomy: a retrospective, non-intervention, observation study.

Pulmonary segmentectomy (SE) became an increasingly popular method for resection of early-stage lung cancer. This study aims to compare the impact of single SE (SSE), multiple SE (MSE) and lobectomy (LE) on postoperative pulmonary function in patients with NSCLC. Medical records of a total of 1284 patients who underwent LE (n = 493), SSE (n = 558) and MSE (n = 233) at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital from January 2013 to October, 2020 were retrospectively analysed. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were performed preoperatively and 12 months after surgery. SSE was associated with a significantly smaller decline in the PFT values compared to MSE and LE. There was a poor consistency between the observed and expected (O/E) loss of pulmonary function in all study groups (P < 0.05). Both LE and SE resulted in similar O/E ratios of all PFT parameters (P > 0.05). Overall loss of pulmonary function was much greater after LE than after both SSE and MSE. MSE was associated with higher postoperative pulmonary function decline compared to SSE but was still beneficial over LE. Both LE and SE groups had similar PFT loss per segment (P > 0.05).

Effectiveness of mepolizumab in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma: In a real life study

We analyzed the effects of mepolizumab treatment on symptoms, asthma attacks, pulmonary function test parameters peripheral blood eosinophil level, and percentage in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma receiving mepolizumab treatment as the baseline, sixth and twelfthmonth data. The medical records of patients diagnosed with severe eosinophilic asthma and treated with mepolizumab at our clinic were retrospectively reviewed for the period between January 2018 and December 2021. Demographic data of the patients, duration of asthma disease, comorbidities such as a nasal polyp, eosinophilic granulomatous polyangiitis, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug exacerbated respiratory disease were investigated. A comparison was made of various factors before initiating mepolizumab treatment, as well as at the sixth and twelfth month after treatment initiation. These factors include asthma control test scores, frequency of asthma attacks (including emergency admissions, hospitalizations, and intensive care admissions), peripheral blood eosinophil levels and percentages, and pulmonary function test parameters. Clinic and laboratory parameters that provide a prediction of being a responder and super responder were evaluated. A total of 21 patients were included in the study. Their mean age was 50.7 ± 11.9 years, and four (19%) were males. The mean duration of asthma diagnosis was 17.5 ±13.7 years. 14 patients (66.7%) were atopic. 4 patients (19%) had nasal polyps and four patients (19%) had NERD. Before mepolizumab, 13 (61.9%) patients had received omalizumab. The duration of receiving mepolizumab treatment was 29.2 ± 9.9 months. A statistically significant decrease was observed in both the number and percentage of eosinophils at months six and 12 (p<0.01). There was a statistically significant increase in FEV1 values both as a percentage and in milliliters at month 12. There was an increase in both percentage and milliliters in FEF25-75 values, but this increase did not reach statistical significance. There was a decrease in service admissions, intensive care admissions, and emergency admissions due to asthma exacerbations. Out of 21 patients, 11 (52.4%) were classified as responders, while 10 (47.6%) were classified as super responders. Although the number of patients in our study was limited, mepolizumab improved symptom scores in severe eosinophilic asthma, reduced the number of attacks, and improved pulmonary function test values.

BLOCK OF THE ANGIOTENSIN PATHWAYS EFFECTS FLOW-VOLUME SPIROMETRY IN PATIENTS WITH SARS-COV-2 INFECTION

Objective: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) pathways inhibitors have been first evaluated in COVID-19 patients for the risk of poor prognosis. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are the main diagnostic tools for most respiratory diseases. Few data are present in follow-up PFTs according to hypertension or treatment. We evaluated patients that are hypertensives and not and the role of ACE2i/ARB through flow-volume spirometry in follow-up after infection recovery. Design and method: We evaluated 112 Caucasian patients 3-6 months after Covid-19 disease, i.e. after the date of negative molecular/antigenic nasopharyngeal swab. The series of patients showed a great variability due to a wide spectrum of age, the severity of disease manifestations, hospitalization, invasive/non-invasive ventilation, comorbidities, the presence/absence of a previous pneumological diagnosis, and the variants of the virus. Patients were divided into those who were hypertensives (Group1, 18 females and 30 males, aged 63.47±14.24), and who were not (Group2, 32 females and 32 males, aged 53.03±16.66). Group1 was further analysed according to treatment: patients in ACEi/ARB treatment (Group1A, 23 females and 12 males, aged 63.63±10.40) and those who not (Group1B, 6 females and 7 males, aged 53.03±16.66). Distal airflow obstruction (DAO) was evaluate as forced expiratory flow (FEF) at 25%, 50% and 75% of total flow. PFTs values were related to age, sex and BMI before comparison. Results: Group1 presented lower peripheral oxygen saturation percentage (SpO2) vs Group2 (p&lt;0.05). Spirometry data were worst in Group1: Forced expiratory volume at first minute (FEV1) (p&lt;0.05), Forced vital capacity (FVC) (p&lt;0.05), and Tiffenau Index (p&lt;0.05). There was a DAO in Group1. In Group 1, we found also a reduction in FEF 25 (p&lt;0.05), FEF 50 (p&lt;0.05), and FEF 25-75 (p&lt;0.05), and in FEF 75 (p&lt;0.05). There was no difference in those parameters comparing Group1A vs Group1B. Conclusions: In hypertensives the indexes of respiratory function were shifted towards the lower limits (albeit within normal limits). These parameters were significantly reduced compared to controls. Treatment with ACEi/ARB didn’t affect PFTs at follow-up evaluation after recovery. Thus, COVID-19 is not only a pulmonary, but also a vascular disease worsening when a previous CV comorbidity.

Volume Incentive Spirometry Reduces Pulmonary Complications in Patients After Open Abdominal Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

To compare the effect of diaphragmatic breathing and volume incentive spirometry (VIS) on hemodynamics, pulmonary function, and blood gas in patients following open abdominal surgery under general anesthesia. A total of 58 patients who received open abdominal surgery were randomly assigned to the control group (n=29) undergoing diaphragmatic breathing exercises and the VIS group (n=29) undergoing VIS exercises. All the participants performed the six-minute walk test (6MWT) preoperatively to evaluate their functional capacity. Hemodynamic indexes, pulmonary function tests, and blood gas indexes were recorded before surgery and on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th postoperative day. The functional capacity was not significantly different between the two groups during the preoperative period (P >0.05). At 3 days and 5 days postoperatively, patients in the VIS group had a significantly higher SpO2 than that in the control group (P <0.05). Pulmonary function test values were reduced in both two groups postoperatively when compared to the preoperative values but improved for three and five days afterward (P <0.05). Of note, the significantly elevated levels of peak expiratory flow (PEF), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC ratio were observed on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th postoperative days in the VIS group compared with those in the control group (P <0.05). Besides, bass excess (BE), and pH values were significantly higher in the VIS group on the 1st postoperative day than those in the control group (P <0.05). Diaphragmatic breathing and VIS could improve postoperative pulmonary function, but VIS exercise might be a better option for improving hemodynamics, pulmonary function, and blood gas for patients after open abdominal surgery, hence lowering the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications.

The Role of Pulmonary Function Testing and Lung Imaging in the Long-Term Follow-Up of Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia

Background: Post-COVID-19 Interstitial Lung Disease (PC-ILD) is characterized by fibrotic-like signs at high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) abnormalities after SARS-CoV-2 infection. It is still not clear how frequent these tests should be performed to rule out long-term consequences of COVID-19 pneumonia. Objectives: The aims of our study were to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of PC-ILD and possibly to propose a long-term follow-up program. Method: One-hundred patients, hospitalized in our ward for moderate to critical COVID-19, underwent two follow-up visits at three and 15 months in which PFTs and HRCT were performed. Results: At the 15-month follow-up, 8% of patients showed residual radiological and functional signs consistent with PC-ILD. All but one of these patients had already demonstrated PFTs and HRCT alterations at first follow-up visit, and the last 1 patient showed worsening of lung function during follow-up. These findings highlight the negative predictive value of PFTs at 3-month follow-up for the development of PC-ILD. Aging, severity of COVID-19, and degree of pulmonary involvement during acute infection proved to be significant risk factors for developing PC-ILD. Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of PFTs in the long-term follow-up of patients affected by moderate to critical COVID-19 pneumonia. Further studies are needed to confirm our hypothesis that HRCT should be performed only in patients with PFTs abnormalities.

Fatigue in Patients with Sarcoidosis in Denmark.

Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, primarily affecting the lungs and thoracic lymph nodes. Fatigue is a frequent and disabling symptom in sarcoidosis with a significant impact on quality of life. In Denmark, the incidence of sarcoidosis has increased; however, the extent and risk factors of fatigue have not been investigated and no recent reports of the characteristics of patients with sarcoidosis in Denmark exist. To assess the frequency of fatigue in patients with sarcoidosis in Denmark at diagnosis and to investigate if fatigue correlated with relevant disease parameters. Moreover, to characterize patients with sarcoidosis in Denmark at time of diagnosis. Data were collected in 150 patients with recently diagnosed sarcoidosis. Fatigue was measured using the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS). Patients with fatigue were compared to non-fatigue patients regarding clinical parameters. FAS was completed by 145 of 150 patients. Fifty-one percent reported significant fatigue. Mean FAS score was 23.6 and 51% had a FAS score ≥ 22. Fatigue in 89 incident patients did not correlate significantly with demographics, physiological, or clinical parameters. Fifty-nine percent were males. Mean age was 47years; mean values (% predicted) for pulmonary function tests were normal and 71% at Scadding stage 0-I. In Denmark, fatigue was frequent in patients with sarcoidosis. The majority of patients had mild disease at diagnosis and were older but lower at Scadding stage at diagnosis compared to previous cohorts.