Reference values and modelling of lung function development as a transcendent function of age, body height and mass

Bull Eur Physiopathol Respir. 1987 Mar-Apr;23(2):139-47.

Abstract

We present new lung function reference values based on an investigation of 1024 healthy subjects aged 6-81 years. The dependent variables, i.e. VC, FEV1, RV, FRC, TLC, PEF, MEF50 and MEF25 are expressed as transcendent functions of age, body height and mass. A single equation covers the age range from 6 to 81 years and reflects certain phenomena such as growth, maturation, ageing, sex differences and the undermass-overmass effect. This allows a more accurate determination of individualized reference values and normal limits.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Body Constitution*
  • Body Height
  • Body Weight
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Biological
  • Reference Values
  • Respiration*
  • Respiratory Function Tests
  • Sex Characteristics