The value of ear lobe oximetry in the assessment of disability in asbestos-related disease.

Abstract

Thirty-four asbestos workers, with either asbestosis, diffuse pleural thickening, calcified pleural plaques, or with comparable asbestos exposure but no evidence of asbestos-related disease and seven normal controls underwent a progressive exercise test. The subjects were categorized on the basis of lung function tests and PA chest X-rays. During the exercise test oxygen saturation was measured continuously by an ear lobe oximeter. The asbestosis and diffuse pleural thickening groups showed significant oxygen desaturation on exertion, confirming that both these conditions give rise to appreciable respiratory disability.

• Authors: M G Britton, M C Apps, D L Maxwell, D T Hughes, A Hanson
• Journal: Respiratory medicine (Respir Med) Vol. 83 Issue 1 Pg. 43-9 (Jan 1989) ISSN: 0954-6111 [Print] England
• PMID: 2587835 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Oxygen

Topics

• Asbestosis (blood, complications, physiopathology)
• Exercise Test
• Humans
• Lung (diagnostic imaging, physiopathology)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Oximetry
• Oxygen (blood)
• Radiography
• Respiratory Function Tests