Factors for the Variability of Three Acceptable Maximal Expiratory Flow–Volume Curves in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

摘要

Generally, the maximal expiratory flow–volume (MEFV) curve must be measured for the diagnosis and staging of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). As this test is effort dependent, international guidelines recommend that three acceptable trials are required for each test. However, no study has examined the magnitude and factors for the variability in parameters among three acceptable trials.