[Correlation of parameters of the flow-volume curve for the assessment of bronchial hyperreactivity]

The association of maximal expiratory flow-volume curve and the response of nonspecific bronchial responsiveness was studied in 265 normal and asthmatic subjects. Bronchial hyperresponsiveness to acetylcholine was found in 143 subjects. These hyperreactive persons had already significantly reduced maximal expiratory flow rate at 75%, 50% and 25% vital capacity before the test started. Besides, we found a significant correlation between the provocative dose and the flow-volume parameters, although resistance was in the normal range. We concluded that the flow rates at middle and low lung volumes may be an important determinant of bronchial sensitivity to acetylcholine.