Abstract
Pulmonary function tests were performed on 40 patients with neuromuscular disease. The maximum expiratory pressure was the most sensitive indicator of weakness and was decreased in 87% of adult patients. A comparison of Stead-Wells, electronic (Vanguard), and bellows spirometry (Vitalor) indicated an excellent correlation between the Stead-Wells and electronic devices. The bellows spirometer consistently underestimated volumes, particularly in severely weak patients.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Adolescent
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Adult
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / physiopathology
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Child
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Female
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Forced Expiratory Volume
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Humans
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Lung / physiopathology*
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Male
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Maximal Midexpiratory Flow Rate
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Middle Aged
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Muscular Dystrophies / physiopathology
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Myasthenia Gravis / physiopathology
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Myotonic Dystrophy / physiopathology
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Neuromuscular Diseases / physiopathology*
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Spirometry / instrumentation
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Spirometry / methods
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Vital Capacity