Publication Date

2015

Journal Title

Pneumonol Alergol Pol

Abstract

Spirometry flow-volume loop measurement is the screening test of choice to rule out obstructive lung diseases. Flow oscillations occasionally seen on flow volume loops, referred to as a "saw-tooth" sign, are thought to be due to an upper airway obstructive processes associated with upper airway collapsibility. Widely described in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, flow oscillations have also been linked to many other upper airway pathologies. The mechanism by which flow oscillations occur is centered on the inspiratory and expiratory flow of air. It has been theorized that the mechanism of flow oscillations result from rapid intermittent changes in driving pressure or airway resistance. Since visual inspection of the flow volume loop can reveal presence of flow oscillations clinicians should be aware of this phenomenon and the presence of flow loop oscillations should clue physicians to rule out upper airway pathology.

Volume Number

83

Issue Number

2

Pages

140-3

Document Type

Article

EPub Date

2015/03/11

Status

Faculty, SOM Student, Northwell Researcher

Facility

School of Medicine; Northwell Health

Primary Department

Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine

PMID

25754056

DOI

10.5603/PiAP.2015.0022


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