Prediction equations for spirometry in healthy children from Djibouti.

OBJECTIVE: To determine normal spirometric values in Djiboutian children and to compare these data with values reported by African studies and by the 2012 Global Lung Function Initiative. METHODS: Spirometric data from healthy Djiboutian children were collected and reference equations derived using the least mean squared method, which includes modelling skewness (λ, L), mean (µ, M) and coefficient of variation (σ, S) according to sex, age and height. In addition, the age-dependent lower limits of normal were calculated. RESULTS: Spirometric values in Djiboutian children were lower than those obtained for other Black children; these differences were relatively small and clinically irrelevant, representing differences of approximately 3% predicted. However, significant differences were observed between our equations and those for Tunisian children. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study could help to improve the clinical diagnosis of respiratory diseases in Djiboutian children.

[The indoor sport: is it a risk factor for allergic rhinitis?]. / La pratique sportive en salle serait-elle un facteur de risque de rhinite allergique ?

INTRODUCTION: The high prevalence of allergic rhinitis that occurs in elite athletes has been extensively investigated. However, data among recreational athletes practicing indoor activities remain contradictory. The aim of the present study was to determine whether taking part in gym based sporting activities constitutes a risk factor for allergic rhinitis in recreational athletes. METHODS: A group of 50 recreational athletes was examined. A specific questionnaire for the screening of allergic rhinitis and a battery of skin prick-tests to aeroallergens were administered to each participant. Measurements of nasal symptoms, peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) and lung function were also obtained before and after a training session. RESULTS: Thirty-two percent of the participants were atopic, 18% suffered from allergic rhinitis. This prevalence is similar to that of the general population (16.9%). After exercise, nasal symptom prevalence did not change significantly. However, an improvement in nasal inspiratory flow was observed in 70% of the participants. No statistically significant change in lung function was noticed. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that the occasional practice of sport in the gyms does not constitute a risk factor for atopy or allergic rhinitis. However, this kind of activity induces an increase in the nasal patency of both the healthy and the rhinitic subjects.