Reference values of respiratory impedance with impulse oscillometry in healthy Chinese adults

Impulse oscillometry (IO) is a non-invasive pulmonary function test for measuring respiratory impedance. Available reference equations of IO indices for adults are limited. The aim of this study was to develop reference equations of IO indices for Chinese adults.

In a multicentral, cross-sessional study of IO in Chinese adults, IO data from healthy subjects were collected from 19 general hospitals across China between 2016 and 2018. Oscillometry measurements were conducted in accordance with recommendations of the European Respiratory Society (ERS). Multiple linear regression was performed to develop sex-specific reference equations of IO indices.

IO measurements were performed in 1,318 subjects, of which 567 subjects were defined as healthy individuals with acceptable IO data and were included in the final analysis. Reference equations and limits of normal [lower limit of normal (LLN)/upper limit of normal (ULN)] of IO indices were developed separately for males and females. Height but not age was shown to be the most influential contributor to IO indices. The reference equations currently used in lung function laboratories predicted higher R5 and X5. Normal ranges of R5 and X5 recommended by the equipment manufacturer were clearly different from the ULN/LLN derived from the reference equations.

Reference equations of IO indices for Chinese adults from a wide region were provided in this study. It is necessary to update new IO reference equations and adopt ULN/LLN as normal ranges of IO indices.

This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as part of a larger study NCT03467880.