VARIABILIDADE DA IMPEDÂNCIA DO SISTEMA RESPIRATÓRIO EM INDIVÍDUOS PORTADORES DE ASMA E DPOC

Recently, the variability of the mechanical impedance of the respiratory system (VZt) was proposed as a diagnostic and a research tool in asthma. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential use of VZt in individuals with astma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Forteen control subjects, 14 asthmatics and 14 patients with COPD were evaluated. Patients with asthma presented a non- segnificant increase in VZt, while COPD patients presented increased values of VZt (p<0.003). VZt was inversely correlated with airway obstruction (p<0.004). These results indicate that VZt may contribute to our understanding about the respiratory system, and as a diagnostic tool in respiratory diseases. Palavras-chave: Biomecânica, variabilidade, asma, DPOC, Impedância respiratória, Técnica de Oscilações Forçadas. Introdução