Respiratory function, cardiovascular dimensions and work capacity in boys with bronchial asthma

Twenty boys with bronchial asthma, aged 8-13 years, were studied with regard to the size of their respiratory and circulatory organs and to their excercise tolerance. The boys were divided into two groups (A and B) depending on the severity of their subjective symptoms. Normal values were found for TLC, VC, and FRC in both groups, whereas the group with the most severe asthma had a slightly increased RV. In both groups THb, blood and heart volumes were normal. A quite normal relationship between these variables was observed as well as with work capacity (W170 and VO2 max) with no intergroup differences. Respiratory rate was lower and ventilation was increased in group B, both in submaximal and maximal exercise. Thus, tidal volume in maximal exercise exceeded 50 per cent of vital capacity in this group. These boys also had the highest blood lactate concentration at submaximal and maximal exercise. In half of the boys asthma-like attacks were elicited by the excercise. The symptoms subsided without treatment shortly after work. The frequency and intensity of attacks were similar in the two groups.