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 507
OP 522
DO 10.1183/09031936.00069712
VO 41
IS 3
A1 Paul D. Robinson
A1 Philipp Latzin
A1 Sylvia Verbanck
A1 Graham L. Hall
A1 Alexander Horsley
A1 Monika Gappa
A1 Cindy Thamrin
A1 Hubertus G.M. Arets
A1 Paul Aurora
A1 Susanne I. Fuchs
A1 Gregory G. King
A1 Sooky Lum
A1 Kenneth Macleod
A1 Manuel Paiva
A1 Jane J. Pillow
A1 Sarath Ranganathan
A1 Felix Ratjen
A1 Florian Singer
A1 Samatha Sonnappa
A1 Janet Stocks
A1 Padmaja Subbarao
A1 Bruce R. Thompson
A1 Per M. Gustafsson
YR 2013
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/41/3/507.abstract
AB Inert gas washout tests, performed using the single- or multiple-breath washout technique, 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.