Lungenfunktionsmessungen im Kleinkind- und Vorschulalter: Konsensuspapier der Arbeitsgruppe Lungenfunktion in der Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Pneumologie

Background: Lung function measurements are more and more being carried out in toddlers and preschool children. Special requirements must be fulfilled with respect to equipment and appropriate age-related application. Objective: This article presents the current consensus on application and interpretation of lung function measurements in toddlers and preschool children. Material and methods: A literature search was carried out and an expert consensus opinion was reached. Results: The most frequently used techniques are spirometry, measurements of resistance using forced oscillation or whole body plethysmography and gas washout techniques with the latter being used more and more in specialized centers. The results obtained by these methods are reproducible when performed by trained personnel. For the assessment of spirometric measurements, the new reference values of the Global Lung Function Initiative are recommended. Conclusion: Lung function measurements can also be performed in toddlers and preschool children and they become increasingly important both for diagnosis and assessment during the course of disease.