Diagnostic Potential of Oscillometry: A Population-based Approach

Abstract

<b>Rationale:</b> Respiratory resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs) as measured by oscillometry and their intrabreath changes have emerged as sensitive parameters for detecting early pathological impairments during tidal breathing. <b>Objectives:</b> This study evaluates the prevalence and association of abnormal oscillometry parameters with respiratory symptoms and respiratory diseases in a general adult population. <b>Methods:</b> A total of 7,560 subjects in the Austrian LEAD (Lung, hEart, sociAl, boDy) Study with oscillometry measurements (computed with the Resmon Pro FULL; Restech Srl) were included in this study. The presence of respiratory symptoms and doctor-diagnosed respiratory diseases was assessed using an interview-based questionnaire. Rrs and Xrs at 5 Hz, their inspiratory and expiratory components, the area above the Xrs curve, and the presence of tidal expiratory flow limitation were analyzed. Normality ranges for oscillometry parameters were defined. <b>Measurements and Main Results:</b> The overall prevalence of abnormal oscillometry parameters was 20%. The incidence of abnormal oscillometry increased in the presence of symptoms or diagnoses: 17% (16-18%) versus 27% (25-29%), <i>P</i> < 0.0001. All abnormal oscillometry parameters except Rrs at 5 Hz were significantly associated with respiratory symptoms/diseases. Significant associations were found, even in subjects with normal spirometry, with abnormal oscillometry incidence rates increasing by 6% (4-8%; <i>P</i> < 0.0001) in subjects with symptoms or diagnoses. <b>Conclusions:</b> Abnormal oscillometry parameters are present in one-fifth of this adult population and are significantly associated with respiratory symptoms and disease. Our findings underscore the potential of oscillometry as a tool for detecting and evaluating respiratory impairments, even in individuals with normal spirometry.