Evaluation of the Double-Tracer Gas Single-Breath Washout Test in a Pediatric Field Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The early life origins of chronic pulmonary diseases are thought to arise in peripheral small airways. Predictors of ventilation inhomogeneity, a proxy of peripheral airway function, are understudied in schoolchildren.

Research question

Is the double-tracer gas single-breath washout (DTG-SBW) measurement feasible in a pediatric field study setting? What are the predictors of the DTG-SBW-derived ventilation inhomogeneity estimate in unselected schoolchildren?

Study design and methods

In this prospective cross-sectional field study, a mobile lung function testing unit visited participating schools in Switzerland. We applied DTG-SBW, fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (Feno), and spirometry measurements. The DTG-SBW is based on tidal inhalation of helium and sul

SUBMITTER: Kentgens AC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10851274 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature