Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 12, 2026

Employing the Forced Oscillation Technique for the Assessment of Respiratory Mechanics in Adults
Published on: February 9, 2022
Advances and Limitations of Reference Equations in Pulmonary Function Test Interpretation: Considerations for
Angela O Suen1, Nirav R Bhakta2
1Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, 1001 Potrero Avenue, #5K1 San Francisco, CA 94110, USA; Division of Geriatrics, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
Abstract:
Pulmonary function tests can contribute to the evaluation of respiratory problems but should be interpreted with an awareness of the limitations, particularly in older adults. Use of z-scores when comparing results to reference values may reduce age bias. Older adults are underrepresented in the most used reference equations for spirometry, GLI and NHANES, and the implications for pulmonary function test (PFT) interpretation are discussed. Removal of race from PFT reference equations leads to changes in interpretation that must be navigated when making clinical decisions from fixed thresholds but is expected to advance health equity.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Excretion
Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests are crucial diagnostic tools for assessing respiratory function, particularly in patients with chronic respiratory disorders. They comprehensively evaluate lung volumes, ventilatory function, breathing mechanics, diffusion, and gas exchange. These tests help diagnose pulmonary diseases and play a significant role in monitoring disease progression, evaluating disability, and assessing response to therapy.
PFTs involve using a spirometer, a...
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Drug Dosing in Renal Diseases: Estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate Based on Serum Creatinine Concentration

