ILOs:

• Describe the relationships between gas pressure, volume, and temperature (Boyle's law).
• Explain how gas properties influence spirometry measurements.
• Explain the concept of spirometry and its clinical importance.
• List lung volumes and capacities, and their normal values.
• Describe the difference between static and dynamic lung parameters.
• Use spirometry to differentiate between obstructive and restrictive lung diseases.

Mila is an 11-year-old girl that has suffered from mild asthma since she was 6 years old. When she awakes she often feels short of breath, has a tightness in the chest, and may cough or wheeze. A dose of her inhaler allows her to breathe easy again. How does asthma affect airflow? How is spirometry used to assess asthma?

Spirometry

• How can a spirometer be used to measure lung volumes and air flows?

Static lung parameters

• How can we define the volume of air that moves in and out of the lungs?

Dynamic lung parameters

• How can we assess the rate at which the lungs are able to move air in and out?

Flow-volume loops