Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 10, 2026
Fast and Accurate Exhaled Breath Ammonia Measurement
Published on: June 11, 2014
Agreement between multiple-breath nitrogen washout systems in children and adults
William Poncin1, Florian Singer2, Anne-Sophie Aubriot1
1Cystic Fibrosis Unit, Cliniques Universitaires St Luc, Université de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
Background:
Comparability of multiple breath washout (MBW) systems has been little explored. We assessed agreement in lung clearance index (LCI) from two similar, commercial nitrogen MBW setups in patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) and controls.
Methods:
The EasyOne Pro (NDD) and Exhalyzer D (EM) were randomly applied in 85 adults (34 with CF) and 97 children (47 with CF and normal forced expiratory volume in one second). We assessed differences between setups in LCI, lung volumes and breathing pattern and diagnostic performance for detecting abnormal lung function.
Results:
Compared to NDD, EM measured higher LCI, functional residual capacity and cumulative expired volume while respiratory rate was lower. Mean difference (limits of agreement) in LCI was 1.30 (-2.34 to 4.94). In CF, prevalence of abnormal LCI was greater in children and similar in adults using EM compared to NDD.
Conclusions:
Agreement of MBW outcomes between setups is poor and explained by nitrogen measurement techniques and breathing pattern.
Related Concept Videos
01:16Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
01:26Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
Nasal Cannula
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split at one end into two prongs and placed in the nostrils. It is typically used to deliver low to medium levels of oxygen.
Suggested flow rate: The suggested flow rate for a nasal cannula typically ranges between 1 and 6 L/min.
Oxygen percentage setting:...
01:16The Respiratory System
01:23Overview of Respiratory System
What is the Respiratory System?
The respiratory system consists of a series of organs responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The primary function of the respiratory system is to...