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Published on: January 8, 2019
[Lung function prediction equations in Tunisian children: taking into consideration pubertal stage]
Y Trabelsi1, Z Tabka, J-P Richalet
1Laboratoire de physiologie et des explorations fonctionnelles, faculté de médecine, université de Sousse, 4002 Sousse, Tunisie. trabelsiyassine@yahoo.fr
Insights
This study established lung function prediction equations for Tunisian children using height and pubertal stage. These new reference values aid in monitoring respiratory health in this population.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Respiratory Physiology
- Anthropometry
Background:
- Accurate lung function prediction equations are crucial for diagnosing respiratory conditions in children.
- Existing equations may not be suitable for diverse ethnic populations, necessitating local validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop specific lung function prediction equations for Tunisian children.
- To utilize standing height and pubertal stage as key independent variables.
Main Methods:
- Spirometry was performed on 684 asymptomatic Tunisian children (ages 8-16).
- Key pulmonary function parameters measured included FVC, FEV1, PEF, MEF50, and MMEF25-75.
- Pubertal status was assessed using the Tanner method.
Main Results:
- Multiple regression equations were derived for FVC, FEV1, MEF50, MMEF25-75, and PEF.
- Equations were developed separately for boys and girls, incorporating height and pubertal stage.
- Significant variation in age and height distribution across pubertal stages was observed.
Conclusions:
- Validated reference values for lung function in Tunisian children were established.
- These equations are expected to enhance the medical surveillance of respiratory diseases in this demographic.
- Local ethnic-specific data improves the accuracy of pediatric respiratory assessments.
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to set lung function prediction equations in Tunisian children with standing height and pubertal stage as the independent variables.
Methods:
Spirometric values were measured with a Minato portable Spirometer in 684 asymptomatic Tunisian children (351 boys and 333 girls), 8 to 16 years of age. The specific parameters of pulmonary function that were measured included Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV(1)), Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), Maximal Expiratory Flow at 50% of the vital capacity (MEF(50)), and Maximum Mild Expiratory Flow between 25 and 75% (MMEF(25-75)). The pubertal status was assessed for males and females according to the Tanner method.
Results:
A large variation was observed in the distribution of children's age and height by pubertal stages in both sexes. Multiple regression equations for FVC, FEV(1), MEF(50), MEF(25-75), and PEF for both sexes are presented with standing height and pubertal stage as the independent variables.
Conclusion:
The establishment of validated reference values relevant to the ethnic group of the local population should significantly improve medical surveillance of respiratory diseases in Tunisian children.
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