Comparison of a new desktop spirometer (Diagnosa (R)) with a laboratory spirometer

Background. The Diagnosa is a fully integrated system, able to determine sp irometry, ECG, blood pressure and body composition. Real time data can be t ransferred via Internet to a remote receiving center. Objectives: The aim o f this study was to perform biological testing of the spirometry component in subjects with normal and pathological pulmonary function. Methods: A gro up of 45 patients (mean age 43.3 years, 30 males) was tested on both the Di agnosa and the standard Jaeger Masterlab spirometer according to the guidel ines of the American Thoracic Society. Three subgroups of 15 subjects each (normal spirometry, obstructive and restrictive airflow limitation) were se lected. Results: All measurements performed with the Diagnosa (FVC, FIVC, F EV1, PEF, FEF25, FEF50, FEF75) correlated closely (r = 0.92-0.99) with thos e performed with the Jaeger spirometer and showed good limits of agreement (the largest difference between the two devices being 0.2 liter for FEV1). Analysis of the 3 subgroups showed no difference for any parameters compare d to the overall group. Electronic transfer of all data was successful. Con clusions: The Diagnosa spirometer is comparable to a standard laboratory sp irometer and can be used reliably for telemedicine purposes. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel.