Usefulness of peak expiratory flow measurements: Is it just a matter of instrument accuracy?

Abstract

A method for improving the accuracy of peak flow meters will be valuable if the recommendation to measure PEF is to be maintained in asthma management plans. With the currently available peak flow meters, no evidence has been provided that PEF measurements are of clinical usefulness. A large number of new randomised controlled studies using optimally validated peak flow meters would therefore be necessary. However, by that time these instruments may have become obsolete.