Spirometric reference values in the occupational medicine practice.

Spirometry is the main pulmonary function test routinely employed in the occupational medicine practice. Its interpretation depends on the choice of the theoretical reference values. Therefore, our objective was to retrospectively evaluate the differences in the spirometric interpretation according to the reference values used. A total of 2462 spirometries performed during health surveillance programs were analyzed. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV The GLI 2012 provided significantly higher predicted mean FVC and FEV In comparison to the GLI 2012, the ERS 1993 values significantly underestimated obstructive and restrictive alterations. Conversely, the ECSC 1971 significantly underestimated obstructive changes, while overestimated restrictive patterns, compared to GLI. Although the GLI reference values may provide a correct spirometric interpretation, their validation in an Italian worker population is necessary to confirm their possible use in routine occupational health programs.