Rev Pneumol Clin
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The different parameters used in cardiopneumologic exercise tests allow an assessment of exercise tolerance on the basis of the subject's ventilatory response, cardiac and metabolic adaptation and gas exchanges during exercise. VO2max and dyspnea are indicators of good or poor exercise tolerance. Normal values established for adults in three reference articles depend on age, body weight and height. ⋯ Measurement of the ventilatory threshold is less invasive, ventilatory outflow increasing with increasing lactate level as described by the Beaver or Wassermann model. These thresholds indicate the subject's aerobic capacity. The exercise test has diagnostic value but can also be useful for individual patient management, particularly cardiorespiratory rehabilitation.