Pulmonary diffusion indices in ageing adults

The lung transfer factor (Tl) was measured by the single breath holding CO technique in 147 apparently healthy males and 88 females of 35-70 years of age, belonging to similar middle class of socio-economic and nutritional status. They were non-smokers, non-alcoholics and had no cardio-respiratory problems at the time of study. The male subjects with average age of 46.9 years, weight 63.9 Kgs, Height 168.9 cms, surface area 1.73 m2, Hb 12.7 gm% had Tl 29.41 +/- 1.78 mlCo/min/mmHg whereas female subjects with average age of 45-60 years, with Wt 63.2 Kgs, Ht. 155.5 cms, Surface area 1.57 m2, Hb 10.88% had Tl 22.49 +/- 1.28 mlCo/min/mmHg. Simple and multiple regression equation for age, Ht, Hb were worked out and their correlation with Tl discussed.