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.