ASSESSMENT OF VENTILATORY FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASE

Ventilatory manifestations of neuromuscular disease include dyspnea an d CO2 retention of obscure origin. Attention to the clinical setting a nd to physical signs points to respiratory muscle weakness. Because re sults of conventional spirometric tests may not become abnormal until weakness is advanced, it is essential to measure the maximal inspirato ry and expiratory pressures. Sleep polysomnography, stimulation of the phrenic nerves, and measurement of transdiaphragmatic pressure also m ay help with diagnosis.