Tests & procedures / Results block
Full lung function results
Every number in the same order in every letter, so a reader can compare across visits without hunting.
Full lung function ([date]): Height [] cm; weight [] kg; BMI [] FEV1 [] L ([]% predicted, z-score []) FVC [] L ([]% predicted, z-score []) FEV1/FVC ratio []% (LLN []) Peak flow [] L/min ([]% predicted) TLC [] L ([]% predicted) RV [] L ([]% predicted) RV/TLC []% TLCO [] ([]% predicted) KCO [] ([]% predicted) Reference equations: [GLI 2012 and GLI 2017 for transfer factor] Interpretation: []
How to use it
Keep the order fixed. The value of a results block is that a colleague reading the third letter in a series can run their eye down the same position on the page each time; the moment the order varies, that stops working and everyone goes back to opening the PDF. Percent predicted and z-score are both offered because current standards interpret against the lower limit of normal rather than a flat 80% cut-off, but most people still think in percentages and most MDTs still ask for them. Record which reference equations the laboratory used — a change of equation between visits can move a value by more than the disease did.
Why it says that
None of this is in the copied text. It is here so you can check the block against its source, and change it when the source changes.
- ERS/ATS technical standards for interpretive strategies for routine lung function tests (Stanojevic et al, 2022) Interpret against the lower limit of normal using z-scores rather than fixed per cent predicted thresholds, and state the reference equation.
- Global Lung Function Initiative reference equations The equations most UK laboratories report against.
- ATS/ERS standardisation of the measurement of lung volumes and of the single-breath transfer factor How TLC, RV, TLCO and KCO should be measured and reported.
Trials behind it
- Hyatt 2011 2011 The nonspecific pattern is stable in two thirds of patients and is not early obstruction
Records on respiratorytrials.org.