Introduction:

In Spain, asthma is the second leading cause of morbidity and chronic illness in the paediatric population, following obesity. Asthma is one of the most frequent presenting complaints at the primary care level, and its early diagnosis and treatment allow control of the disease, modifying its course and improving patient quality of life.

Objective:

The aim of the study was to describe our experience in performing spirometry in the paediatric population and encourage other primary care centres to offer this test to their patients.

Material and methods:

A total of 81 spirometry tests were performed in 67 patients aged 5 to 14 years between January 2019 and February 2020. Of the 81 tests, 16% were baseline tests, 32.1% were spirometry with bronchodilator responsiveness testing (BRT), and 51.9% spirometry with exercise challenge and BRT All tests were performed with a Sibelmed Datospir Touch 511-B00-MU1 spirometer.

Results:

Twenty-six spirometry tests included a BRT, with negative results of the BRT in 15 and positive results in 11. Another 32 tests included an exercise challenge, which was positive compared to baseline in 9, while in 23 there were no significant differences relative to baseline, although in 5 of them the BRT was positive.

Conclusion:

It is possible to perform forced spirometry in paediatric patients with high-quality results at the primary care level if the necessary material resources and qualified personnel are available. Providing this service can reduce waiting lists and improve asthma control.

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