Early Diagnosis of Respiratory Abnormalities in Asbestos-Exposed Workers by the Forced Oscillation Technique.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The current reference test for the detection of respiratory abnormalities in asbestos-exposed workers is spirometry. However, spirometry has several shortcomings that greatly affect the efficacy of current asbestos control programs. The forced oscillation technique (FOT) represents the current state-of-the-art technique in the assessment of lung function. This method provides a detailed analysis of respiratory resistance and reactance at different oscillatory frequencies during tidal breathing. Here, we evaluate the FOT as an alternative method to standard spirometry for the early detection and quantification of respiratory abnormalities in asbestos-exposed workers.

Methodology/principal findings

Seventy-two subjects were analyzed. The control group was composed o

SUBMITTER: de Sa PM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5017649 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature