title: PUFF: an expert system for interpretation of pulmonary function data.
abstract: The application of artificial intelligence techniques to real-world problems has produced promising research results, but seldom has a system become a useful tool in its domain of expertise. Notable exceptions are the DENDRAL (1) and MOLGEN (2) systems. This paper describes PUFF, a program that interprets lung function test data and has become a working tool in the pulmonary physiology lab of a large hospital. Elements of the problem that paved the way for its success are examined, as are significant limitations of the solution that warrant further study.
mesh_terms: D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests