Journal of Isfahan Medical School

Journal of Isfahan Medical School

A Comparative Overview of Impact Oscillometry and Spirometry in the Assessment of Obstructive Airway Disease in Industrial Workers

Document Type : Original Article (s)

Authors
Babak Amra 1
Maryam Nasirian 2
Hamid Bahrami 3
Amirhossein Khandan 4
1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, AND, Bamdad Respiratory Research Center, Isfahan, Iran
2 Faculty of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Isfahan university of medical sciences, Isfahan, Iran
3 Department of Occupational Medicine, Tehran, Iran
4 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
10.48305/jims.v44.i852.0192
Abstract
Introduction: Obstructive airway diseases represent significant occupational health challenges in industrial settings. Early identification of these conditions is essential to prevent progression and irreversible complications. While spirometry is recognized as the gold standard for diagnosis, impulse oscillometry (IOS), a new and non-invasive technique, has showed substantial potential for early detection, particularly in small airways. This review article aims to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of both methods in screening and monitoring the lung health of industrial workers.
Discussion: Spirometry detects obstruction by measuring airflow and lung volume; however, its reliance on maximum patient cooperation presents a notable limitation. In contrast, impulse oscillometry measures airway resistance (R) and reactance (X) while requiring only calm, normal breathing, thus offering greater sensitivity for early disease detection in small airways. Numerous studies have indicated that IOS can identify functional impairments in workers exposed to pollutants before spirometry shows any changes.
Conclusion: Impulse oscillometry appears to be a valuable complementary tool to spirometry in lung health screening programs for industrial workers. Integrating these two methods can provide a more comprehensive assessment and facilitate early detection of obstructive airway diseases, enabling timely preventive measures.

Highlights

Babak Amra: Google Scholar

Maryam Nasirian: Google Scholar

Amirhossein Khandan: Google Scholar

Keywords
Impact Oscillometry
Spirometry
Obstructive Airway Disease
Industrial Workers
Occupational Health
Subjects
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Journal of Isfahan Medical School
Volume 44, Issue 852
4th Week, April
March and April 2026
Pages 192-199

  • Receive Date 21 December 2025
  • Accept Date 27 January 2026