When adopting Global Lung Function Initiative reference values, can we also adapt them to a local context as needed?. Issue 3 (16th September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Verbanck, Sylvia; Vanderhelst, Eef; Hanon, Shane
• Is Part Of: European respiratory journal. Volume 58:Issue 3(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09-16
• Subjects: Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiration -- Periodicals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01601-2021
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0903-1936

Abstract

We have read with interest the official European Respiratory Society technical standards for Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) reference lung volumes [1], and we welcome the user-friendly online computation module that facilitates translation of spirometry, transfer factor and lung volume variables into % predicted and z-scores [2]. The latter allows lung function researchers to stay up-to-date with the latest normative values of variables that are being measured in the routine lung function lab, while awaiting upgrades of their laboratory equipment to the latest reference values for carbon monoxide transfer factor (25 September 2020 update) or to the newly published lung volumes. When applying GLI reference values to a local patient population, discrepancies may arise due to population or equipment characteristics. This is illustrated with a specific example and request to GLI for guidance. https://bit.ly/3jmATb9