Abstract

BENITEZ-PEREZ, Rosaura Esperanza et al. Spirometry: recommendations and procedure. Neumol. cir. torax [online]. 2016, vol.75, n.2, pp.173-190. ISSN 0028-3746.

Forced spirometry is the most highly-standardized and best-known pulmonary function test, as it evaluates the mechanical properties of the respiratory system and represents the gold standard for diagnosing airflow obstruction. It measures exhaled flows and volumes from a maximum inspiration, and performance of the maneuvers required is simple, quick and non-invasive. The most important parameters obtained by spirometry are: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC ratio. This manuscript contains a review of the current international recommendations for the use of forced spirometry, according to the standardizations published by the American Thoracic Society (ATS) and the European Respiratory Society in 2005. In addition, it presents several recommendations for the utilization of this technique in relation to occupational diseases, with suggestions concerning the local application of this procedure.

Keywords : Spirometry; procedure; pulmonary function test; vital capacity; airway obstruction; asthma.

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