Authors:
Peterson-Carmichael SL, Rosenfeld M, Ascher SB, Hornik CP, Arets HGM, Davis SD, Hall GL
Authors notes:
Pediatric Pulmonology. 2013:online
Keywords:
Clinical practices, Infant, Pulmonary function, Survey
Abstract:
Data supporting the clinical use of infant lung function (ILF) tests are limited making the interpretation of clinical ILF measures difficult.
To evaluate current ILF testing practices and to survey users regarding the indications, limitations and perceived clinical benefits of ILF testing.
We received 148 responses with 98 respondents having ILF equipment and performing testing in a clinical capacity.
Centers in North America were less likely to perform ≥50 studies/year than centers in Europe or other continents.
Most respondents used ILF data to either "start a new therapy" or "help decide about initiation of further diagnostic workup such as bronchoscopy, chest CT or serological testing".
Factors reported as limiting clinical ILF testing were need for sedation, uncertainty regarding clinical impact of study results and time intensive nature of the study.
Clinical practices associated with ILF testing vary significantly; centers that perform more studies are more likely to use the results for clinical purposes and decision making.
The future of ILF testing is uncertain in the face of the limitations perceived by the survey respondents.