Friedrichs F, Kusenbach G, Skopnik H, Benz-Bohm G, Döhmen H, Heimann G
Kinderklinik, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen.
Monatsschr Kinderheilkd. 1992 Dec;140(12):864-8.
Shwachman-Kulczycki- and Chrispin-Norman-Scores are widely used scoring systems for CF-patients. Maximum bicycle exercise testing was performed in 15 patients (medium age 13.4 years) to investigate whether clinical and radiographic scores or pulmonary function testing could predict cardiorespiratory fitness.
A progressive exercise test was used to determine maximum working capacity (Wmax). Prior to exercise testing, lung function and blood gases were investigated. Chest radiographs were scored by an independent radiologist (G.B.) applying the Chrispin-Norman-Score. The Shwachman-Kulczycki-Score was determined by two observers (F.F., H.S.).
Chrispin-Norman-Score, Schwachman-Kulczycki-Score, results of lung function testing and blood gas values were significantly correlated to each other. However no significant correlation was found to the degree of exercise limitation.
Clinical, radiographic scores and lung function testing cannot predict exercise tolerance. Exercise testing is mandatory to evaluate cardio-respiratory fitness in CF-patients.
