Reply: Spirometry remains the GOLD standard test for COPD diagnosis

Spirometry is a feasible and essential part of the diagnostic process for COPD https://bit.ly/4jwsZbm We read with interest the letter from P. Finamore and co-workers, which discusses the practical implementation of the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) science committee recommendations for the use of spirometry to diagnose COPD. GOLD states that the clinical assessment of chronic respiratory symptoms and exposure to risk factors is the starting point to identify individuals in whom a diagnosis of COPD should be considered [1]. Using the fixed ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1)) to forced vital capacity (FVC) <0.7, pre-bronchodilator (BD) testing can be used to either rule out the presence of airflow obstruction (ratio >0.7) or identify individuals who require post-BD testing to confirm the presence of airflow obstruction (ratio <0.7) and hence the diagnosis of COPD. P. Finamore and co-workers agree that pre-BD testing has the potential to save time by avoiding unnecessary post-BD testing. eng

• Singh, D.
• Agusti, A.
• Volgelmeier, C.
• Halpin, D.