Automated pulmonary function testing: Interpretation and standardization

Abstract

Several different approaches can be used in automated interpretation of pulmonary function tests. All of these approaches either directly or indirectly benefit from standardization, primarily by facilitating comparison of data between laboratories and studies. For most pulmonary function tests, the most difficult portion to automate and standardize is the measurement technique. Yet, unless the problems of measurement technique are resolved, any interpretation of the pulmonary function test will be less than optimal.

Both the American Thoracic Society's recommended spirometry standard and the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute's recommended procedure for determining closing volume have problems in defining measurement technique. One suggested solution to the problems of standardizing measurement technique is the establishment of a set of standard waveforms which can be used to validate automated procedures. The establishment of a set of well defined patient waveforms, for many pulmonary function tests, may well be the most important part of a pulmonary function standard, particularly with regard to measurement technique. In addition, with the aid of such a data base, the task of automating a pulmonary function test is clearly facilitated.