Resp Res
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Can spirometric norms be set using pre- or post- bronchodilator test results in older people?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is defined by post-bronchodilator spirometry. Data on "normal values" come predominantly from pre-bronchodilator spirometry. The effects of this on diagnosis are unknown. ⋯ Using pre-bronchodilator spirometry to derive norms for lung function reduces sensitivity compared to a post-bronchodilator gold standard. Adjustment of these values by a constant can improve validity of the test.