IPCRG Desktop Helper - Spirometry

This 2-page IPCRG Desktop Helper discusses spirometry, which is the gold standard for the diagnosis, assessment and monitoring of COPD, and which may assist the diagnosis of asthma. Spirometry can also contribute to the diagnosis of other causes of dyspnoea.

The Desktop Helper includes sections titled:

  • Which spirometer?
  • Preparation of the patient
  • How is spirometry performed?
  • Reversibility tests
  • Procedure
  • Training
  • Training courses

It also includes a guide to interpreting spirometry.

This Desktop Helper was originally prepared in 2004 and modified in 2010:

Funding: Funded by IPCRG

Date of preparation: September 2004

Author: Dr Alan Kaplan, Canada; Dr Hilary Pinnock

UK editor: Dr Mark Levy, Primary Care Respiratory Society

Date modified: March 2010

Author: Dr Hilary Pinnock, UK; Mrs Jacqui Cooper

UK editor: Dr Mark Levy, Primary Care Respiratory Society