1
|
Bhandari SK, Bist A, Ghimire A. Single breath count test and its applications in clinical practice: a systematic review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2130-2136. [PMID: 38576972 PMCID: PMC10990392 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Single breath count test (SBCT) may be a reproducible, rapid, easy to perform and easy to interpret substitute to spirometry especially in low resource settings for certain conditions. Its interest has been rekindled with the recent COVID-19 pandemic and it can be done as a part of tele-medicine as well. Objectives The objective of this review was to summarize the evidence of SBCT in clinical practice. Methods The authors searched EMBASE, PubMed and Google Scholar for all the relevant articles as per exclusion and inclusion criteria. Two authors independently screened all the studies. Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the studies. The systematic review was carried following the PRISMA guidelines. Results After the rigorous process of screening, a total of 13 articles qualified for the systematic review. SBCT greater than 25 had sensitivity of greater than 80% in diagnosing myasthenia gravis exacerbation and SBCT less than or equal to 5 predicted the need for mechanical ventilation in Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) patients with 95.2% specificity. Also, Single breath count correlated significantly with forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) in children with pulmonary pathology and in patients with COVID-19 it was used to rule out the need for noninvasive respiratory support. Conclusion SBCT will undoubtedly be an asset in low resource settings and in tele-medicine to assess the prognosis and guide management of different respiratory and neuromuscular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anil Bist
- Tribhuvan University Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Internal Medicine, Maharajgunj, Nepal
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Delmondes GMB, Couto NFS, Correia Junior MGA, Bonifácio ABDS, Freitas Dias RD, Bezerra J, Santos MADM, Gomes de Barros MV, Costa EC, Correia Junior MADV. Single breath counting technique to assess pulmonary function: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Breath Res 2023; 18:014001. [PMID: 37875103 DOI: 10.1088/1752-7163/ad0647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary function is usually assessed by measuring Vital Capacity (VC) using equipment such as a spirometer or ventilometer, but these are not always available to the population, as they are relatively expensive tests, difficult to transport and require trained professionals. However, the single breath counting technique (SBCT) appears as a possible alternative to respiratory function tests, to help in the pathophysiological understanding of lung diseases. The objective is to verify the applicability of the SBCT as a parameter for evaluating VC. This is a systematic review registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023383706) and used for PubMed®, Scientific Electronic Library Online, LILACS, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases of articles published until January 2023. Methodological quality regarding the risk of bias was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 and National Institutes of Health tools. Eleven of a total of 574 studies were included, of these, nine showed a correlation between VC and SBCT (weak in healthy, moderate in neuromuscular and strong in hospitalized patients). One study of hospitalized patients accurately identified a count value of 21 for a VC of 20 ml kg-1(Sensitivity = 94% and Specificity = 77%), and another estimated a count lower than 41 for a VC below 80% of predicted in patients with neuromuscular dystrophy (Sensitivity = 89% and Specificity = 62%), and another showed good intra and inter-examiner reproducibility in young, adult, and elderly populations. A meta-analysis of three studies showed a moderate correlation in subjects with neuromuscular diseases (r= 0.62, 95% CI = 0.52-0.71,p< 0.01). A high risk of bias was identified regarding the justification of the sample size and blinding of the evaluators. SBCT has been presented as an alternative to assess VC in the absence of specific equipment. There is a clear relationship between SBCT and VC, especially in neuromuscular and hospitalized individuals. New validation studies conducted with greater control of potential bias risks are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nathália Ferreira Santos Couto
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE/Universidade Federal da Paraíba-UFPB, Associate Graduate Program in Physical Education, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Jorge Bezerra
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE, Graduate Program in Hebiatrics, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE/Universidade Federal da Paraíba-UFPB, Associate Graduate Program in Physical Education, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Marcos André de Moura Santos
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE, Graduate Program in Hebiatrics, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE/Universidade Federal da Paraíba-UFPB, Associate Graduate Program in Physical Education, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Mauro Virgílio Gomes de Barros
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE, Graduate Program in Hebiatrics, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE/Universidade Federal da Paraíba-UFPB, Associate Graduate Program in Physical Education, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Emília Chagas Costa
- Centro Acadêmico de Vitória da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Vitoria de Santo Antao, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Marco Aurélio de Valois Correia Junior
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE, Graduate Program in Hebiatrics, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
- Universidade de Pernambuco-UPE/Universidade Federal da Paraíba-UFPB, Associate Graduate Program in Physical Education, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gilhus NE. Myasthenia gravis, respiratory function, and respiratory tract disease. J Neurol 2023:10.1007/s00415-023-11733-y. [PMID: 37101094 PMCID: PMC10132430 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11733-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is characterized by muscle weakness caused by autoantibodies that bind to the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction and impair acetylcholine receptor function. Weakness of respiratory muscles represents the most severe MG manifestation, and 10-15% of all patients experience an MG crisis with the need of mechanical ventilatory support at least once in their life. MG patients with respiratory muscle weakness need active immunosuppressive drug treatment long term, and they need regular specialist follow-up. Comorbidities affecting respiratory function need attention and optimal treatment. Respiratory tract infections can lead to MG exacerbations and precipitate an MG crisis. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange are the core treatments for severe MG exacerbations. High-dose corticosteroids, complement inhibitors, and FcRn blockers represent fast-acting treatments that are effective in most MG patients. Neonatal myasthenia is a transient condition with muscle weakness in the newborn caused by mother's muscle antibodies. In rare cases, treatment of respiratory muscle weakness in the baby is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021, Bergen, Norway.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dishnica N, Vuong A, Xiong L, Tan S, Kovoor J, Gupta A, Stretton B, Goh R, Harroud A, Schultz D, Malycha J, Bacchi S. Single count breath test for the evaluation of respiratory function in Myasthenia Gravis: A systematic review. J Clin Neurosci 2023; 112:58-63. [PMID: 37094510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) can have a variety of respiratory presentations, ranging from mild symptoms through to respiratory failure. The evaluation of respiratory function in MG can be limited by accessibility to testing facilities, availability of medical equipment, and facial weakness. The single count breath test (SCBT) may be a useful adjunct in the evaluation of respiratory function in MG. METHOD A systematic review of the databases PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was conducted from inception to October 2022 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO. RESULTS There were 6 studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The described method of evaluating SCBT involves inhaling deeply, then counting at two counts per second, in English or Spanish, sitting upright, with normal vocal register, until another breath needs to be taken. The identified studies support that the SCBT has a moderate correlation with forced vital capacity. These results also support that SCBT can assist the identification of MG exacerbation, including via assessment over the telephone. The included studies support a threshold count of ≥ 25 as consistent with normal respiratory muscle function. Although further analysis is needed, the included studies describe the SCBT as a quick bedside tool that is inexpensive and well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS The results of this review support the clinical utility of the SCBT in assessing respiratory function in MG and describe the most current and effective methods of administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noel Dishnica
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia.
| | - Alysha Vuong
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Lucy Xiong
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Sheryn Tan
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Joshua Kovoor
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, SA 5011, Australia
| | - Aashray Gupta
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, QLD 4215, Australia
| | - Brandon Stretton
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, SA 5011, Australia
| | - Rudy Goh
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, SA 5112, Australia
| | - Adil Harroud
- McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - David Schultz
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - James Malycha
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia; Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, SA 5011, Australia
| | - Stephen Bacchi
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Klein E, Dräger B, Boentert M. Validation of the Single Breath Count Test for Assessment of Inspiratory Muscle Strength in Healthy Subjects and People with Neuromuscular Disorders. J Neuromuscul Dis 2023; 10:251-261. [PMID: 36617788 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-221530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to validate the single breath count test (SBCT) against volitional measures of respiratory muscle function in healthy subjects and people with neuromuscular disorders (NMD; n = 100 per group). METHODS Testing comprised upright and supine SBCT, forced vital capacity (FVC), maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP). Predictability of FVC by SBCT was assessed using logarithmic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristics curves were used to identify SBCT thresholds for lung restriction (FVC < 80% predicted), inspiratory muscle weakness (MIP < 60 cmH2O), and indication for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in NMD patients. RESULTS In both groups, SBCT showed moderate correlation with FVC. In patients, SBCT values were also correlated with MIP and SNIP. Strength of correlations was similar with supine and upright SBCT which accounted for 23.7% of FVC variance in healthy individuals (44.5% in patients). Predictive thresholds of upright SBCT were < 27 for MIP < 60 cmH2O (sensitivity 0.61/specificity 0.86), <39 for NIV indication (0.92/0.46), and <41 for FVC < 80% predicted (0.89/0.62). CONCLUSION The SBCT is positively correlated with spirometry. It predicts both lung restriction and NIV indication in NMD patients. The SBCT allows for remote monitoring and may substitute for spirometry/manometry if appropriate devices are unavailable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eike Klein
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.,Department of Medicine, UKM Marienhospital Steinfurt, Steinfurt, Germany
| | - Bianca Dräger
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.,Department of Medicine, UKM Marienhospital Steinfurt, Steinfurt, Germany
| | - Matthias Boentert
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.,Department of Medicine, UKM Marienhospital Steinfurt, Steinfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Myasthenia gravis and telemedicine: a lesson from COVID-19 pandemic. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4889-4892. [PMID: 34436726 PMCID: PMC8390022 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05566-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has induced an urgent reorganization of the healthcare system to ensure continuity of care for patients affected by chronic neurological diseases including myasthenia gravis (MG). Due to the fluctuating nature of the disease, early detection of disease worsening, adverse events, and possibly life-threatening complications is mandatory. This work analyzes the main unresolved issues in the management of the myasthenic patient, the possibilities offered so far by digital technologies, and proposes an online evaluation protocol based on 4 simple tests to improve MG management. Telemedicine and Digital Technology might help neurologists in the clinical decision-making process of MG management, avoiding unnecessary in presence consultations and allowing a rational use of the time and space reduced by the pandemic.
Collapse
|
7
|
Guidon AC, Muppidi S, Nowak RJ, Guptill JT, Hehir MK, Ruzhansky K, Burton LB, Post D, Cutter G, Conwit R, Mejia NI, Kaminski HJ, Howard JF. Telemedicine visits in myasthenia gravis: Expert guidance and the Myasthenia Gravis Core Exam (MG-CE). Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:270-276. [PMID: 33959997 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Telemedicine may be particularly well-suited for myasthenia gravis (MG) due to the disorder's need for specialized care, its hallmark fluctuating muscle weakness, and the potential for increased risk of virus exposure among patients with MG during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic during in-person clinical visits. A disease-specific telemedicine physical examination to reflect myasthenic weakness does not currently exist. METHODS This paper outlines step-by-step guidance on the fundamentals of a telemedicine assessment for MG. The Myasthenia Gravis Core Exam (MG-CE) is introduced as a MG-specific, telemedicine, physical examination, which contains eight components (ptosis, diplopia, facial strength, bulbar strength, dysarthria, single breath count, arm strength, and sit to stand) and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. RESULTS Pre-visit preparation, remote ascertainment of patient-reported outcome scales and visit documentation are also addressed. DISCUSSION Additional knowledge gaps in telemedicine specific to MG care are identified for future investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Guidon
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Srikanth Muppidi
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University Hospital, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Richard J Nowak
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jeffrey T Guptill
- Department of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael K Hehir
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Katherine Ruzhansky
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Leeann B Burton
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Post
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University Hospital, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Gary Cutter
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Robin Conwit
- Division of Clinical Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, NINDS, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicte I Mejia
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Henry J Kaminski
- Department of Neurology, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - James F Howard
- Department of Neurology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|