Changes in FEV1 over time in copd and the importance of spirometry reference ranges: The devil is in the detail

Abstract

Spirometry plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and management of COPD and other respiratory diseases. Since lung function varies with age, height, sex and ethnicity, accurate interpretation is dependent upon using appropriate reference ranges. In this article, we will present two landmark papers: one on changes in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) over time in COPD [1] and the other focussing on spirometry reference ranges produced by the Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) [2].