The different flow pattern in tracheal stenosis, bronchospasm and emphysema.
We can conclude that the combination of high FEV2/1 index and a "peak-flow-less" flow-volume loop is characteristic for the presence of proximal airway stenosis and is a reliable means for differentiation against bronchospasm and emphysema. In comparison, the measurement of airway resistance, FEV1 alone, inspiratory shift of mid-breathing level etc., indicate only the presence of airway obstruction, but fail to give specific information for functional differentiation of bronchial obstruction and morphological evidence of proximal airway stenosis.
D000109:Acetylcholine; D000328:Adult; D000403:Airway Resistance; D001986:Bronchial Spasm / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume; D005652:Functional Residual Capacity; D006801:Humans; D011656:Pulmonary Emphysema / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012123:Pulmonary Ventilation; D014135:Tracheal Stenosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014797:Vital Capacity
D000109:Acetylcholine