[Lung function prediction equations in Tunisian children: taking into consideration pubertal stage].

Objective: The purpose of this study was to set lung function prediction equations in Tunisian children with standing height and pubertal stage as the independent variables.

Methods: Spirometric values were measured with a Minato portable Spirometer in 684 asymptomatic Tunisian children (351 boys and 333 girls), 8 to 16 years of age. The specific parameters of pulmonary function that were measured included Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV(1)), Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), Maximal Expiratory Flow at 50% of the vital capacity (MEF(50)), and Maximum Mild Expiratory Flow between 25 and 75% (MMEF(25-75)).

Carbon-monoxide poisoning in young drug addicts due to indoor use of a gasoline-powered generator.

We report six fatal cases of unintentional carbon-monoxide poisoning which occurred in a house occupied by young people. The source of carbon monoxide was a gasoline-powered generator. For all victims, an external body examination was carried out and blood and urine samples collected.

Spirometric reference values in Tunisian children.

Background: In Tunisia, there are no normal values of pulmonary function for healthy Tunisian children.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to set reference values for spirometric lung function in Tunisian children and to compare these results with other data sets.

Methods: Spirometric values were measured with a Minato portable spirometer in 1,114 asymptomatic, nonsmoking Tunisian children (581 boys and 533 girls) 6-16 years of age.