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Spirometry Flashcards

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  1. Which reference equation set is currently recommended by ATS/ERS for interpreting spirometry in the U.S. adult population?

    Answer: Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) 2012 equations

    The GLI 2012 multi-ethnic reference equations are now recommended by ATS/ERS as the preferred reference for spirometry interpretation across all ages.

  2. A pediatric patient (age 8) performs spirometry. Which additional consideration applies compared to adult testing?

    Answer: Minimum exhalation time is typically 3 seconds, not 6

    In children under 10, ATS/ERS guidelines accept a minimum exhalation time of 3 seconds rather than the 6 seconds required for adults.

  3. A variable extrathoracic (upper airway) obstruction would produce which flow-volume loop pattern?

    Answer: Flattening of the inspiratory limb only

    Variable extrathoracic obstruction (e.g., vocal cord dysfunction) causes flattening of the inspiratory limb because the lesion worsens during inspiration.

  4. Which of the following would be classified as a contraindication to performing spirometry?

    Answer: Recent myocardial infarction within the past month

    Recent myocardial infarction (within 1 month) is a relative contraindication due to the risk of increased intrathoracic pressure from forced exhalation.

  5. In asthma management, spirometry showing normalization of FEV1/FVC after bronchodilator administration indicates:

    Answer: Reversible airflow limitation

    Normalization of FEV1/FVC after bronchodilator confirms reversible airflow limitation, a defining feature of asthma.

  6. The lower limit of normal (LLN) for FEV1/FVC is defined as:

    Answer: 5th percentile of the predicted reference population

    The LLN is defined as the 5th percentile of the reference population distribution, which accounts for age-related decline better than a fixed cutoff.

  7. When reporting spirometry results, which values should be selected from multiple acceptable maneuvers?

    Answer: Largest FEV1 and largest FVC, even if from different maneuvers

    ATS/ERS guidelines specify that the largest FEV1 and largest FVC should be reported, even if they come from different acceptable maneuvers.

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