Tussometry and lung function.

The tussometric parameter peak value time (PVT) has been proposed as an objective measure of laryngeal function. Whether the lower respiratory tract function influences its value is, however, unknown. This study investigates the relationship between lung function parameters forced expiratory volume in 1 second, vital capacity, peak expiratory flow rate, forced expiratory flow at 50% of vital capacity and total lung capacity (FEV1, VC, PEFR, FEF50, TLC) and PVT in 79 subjects. PVT proved to be independent of lung function. It is therefore specifically a measure of laryngeal function, and lung function need not be considered when interpreting PVT values.