Lung Function Can Be Compromised by Severe Scoliosis

One third of children with severe idiopathic scoliosis were found to have obstructive lung disease that could not be predicted by radiographic studies.

Severe idiopathic scoliosis (radiographic Cobb angle ≥40 degrees) is known to be associated with restrictive lung disease (RLD; low lung volume), but whether it is also associated with obstructive lung disease (OLD; abnormal airway function) is unclear.

Now, investigators have retrospectively reviewed pulmonary function studies and clinical diagnostic features for 176 children (86% girls; mean age at scoliosis onset, 13.2 years) who underwent preoperative pulmonary assessment for idiopathic scoliosis at a single institution. OLD was defined as a FEV₁/FVC ratio (forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity) below the 95% confidence interval for normal. Results were as follows:

OLD was found by spirometry in 34% of patient…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

Lung Function Can Be Compromised by Severe Scoliosis

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Reviewing Author