RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Consensus statement for inert gas washout measurement using multiple and single breath tests
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP erj00697-2012
DO 10.1183/09031936.00069712
A1 Paul Robinson
A1 P. Latzin
A1 S. Verbanck
A1 G.L. Hall
A1 A. Horsley
A1 M. Gappa
A1 C. Thamrin
A1 H.G.M Arets
A1 P. Aurora
A1 S. Fuchs
A1 G.G. King
A1 S. Lum
A1 K. Macleod
A1 M. Paiva
A1 J. Pillow
A1 S. Ranganathan
A1 F. Ratjen
A1 F. Singer
A1 S. Sonnappa
A1 J Stocks
A1 P. Subbarao
A1 B. Thompson
A1 P.M. Gustafsson
YR 2012
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/early/2013/02/21/09031936.00069712.abstract
AB Inert gas washout tests, performed using the single or multiple breath washout technique (SBW and MBW, respectively), were first described over 60 years ago. As measures of ventilation distribution inhomogeneity, they offer complementary information to standard lung function tests such as spirometry as well as improved feasibility across wider age ranges and improved sensitivity in the detection of early lung damage. These benefits have led to a resurgence of interest in these techniques from manufacturers, clinicians and researchers, yet detailed guidelines for washout equipment specifications, test performance and analysis are lacking. This manuscript provides recommendations about these aspects, applicable to both the paediatric and adult testing environment, whilst outlining the important principles that are essential for the reader to understand. These recommendations are evidence-based where possible but in many places represent expert opinion from a working group with a large collective experience in the techniques discussed. Finally, the important issues that remain unanswered are highlighted. By addressing these important issues and directing future research, the hope is to facilitate the incorporation of these promising tests into routine clinical practice.