Abstract
Introduction: Measurement of stature is a prerequisite for determination of the normal lung function since reference equations are based on stature (standing height).
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the optimal method to measure stature in a busy pulmonary function laboratory.
Methods: We measured the stature of 87 subjects using a digital-counter stadiometer, a wall-mounted bench rule, and an ultrasound distance estimator. Stature was also estimated based on armspan measurement, and self-reported stature was recorded. Results were compared using Bland and Altman plots.
Results: See table. Neither ultrasound measurement nor self-reported stature was sufficiently accurate for clinical use. An unexpected observation was that the stadiometer was the fastest method.
Conclusion: Stature should be measured with the same accuracy as pulmonary function since clinical decisions are based on both. At present the most accurate and probably the fastest measurement of stature is obtained by using a stadiometer with a digital counter.
- © 2011 ERS