Associations between reduced diffusing capacity and airflow obstruction in community-based subjects

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this analysis was to determine if abnormal diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLco) identified a group of subjects with significantly different characteristics than those with normal lung function or airflow obstruction alone. Methods: Participants were a random sample of adults aged 45-70 years. They completed a detailed respiratory questionnaire, spirometry, methacholine challenge and measurement of single breath DLco. Subjects were categorized into one of three groups: airflow obstruction only, reduced DLco only, or both airflow obstruction and reduced DLco. Results: Individuals with airflow obstruction and reduced DLco in combination reported..