[How should pharmacodynamic tests for respiratory tract obstruction be evaluated?]

The factors that could influence the results of pharmacodynamic testing with beta 2 agonists in lung function diagnostics are discussed. These are: hypersecretion of the mucus, acute respiratory infection, tachyphylaxis of the adrenoceptors, therapy in the past 48 hours, patient's cooperation, and ambient or environmental pollution. The correct application, by inhalation, of selective sympathomimetics is described and differences between the basic values of lung function parameters and those following the salbutamol test are discussed.