Viability of a new home program of forced spirometry with bronchodilator response measurement in the assessment of patients with asthma

Le résumé fourni par la source

BACKGROUND: Home spirometry using portable devices offers a potential alternative for asthma management by reducing hospital dependence and improving accessibility. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a home spirometry program with bronchodilator response (BDR) testing performed without direct medical supervision. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 47 asthma patients from a tertiary hospital. Participants received clear instructions and performed forced spirometry with BDR testing at home using a portable device. The primary outcomes included spirometry quality, variability compared to hospital tests, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: A total of 78% of participants achieved high-quality spirometry (A or B, according to ATS/ERS -criteria), despite greater variability in forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) compared to hospital tests. However, the results remained clinically acceptable. Patients reported high satisfaction with the device, highlighting its ease of use and convenience. CONCLUSIONS: Home spirometry with BDR testing is a feasible tool for asthma follow-up, maintaining acceptable quality while reducing hospital-based testing. Although improvements are needed to minimize variability and enhance consistency, this program has the potential to optimize asthma management, increase accessibility, and reduce the burden on healthcare facilities.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.