Pulmonary function in asymptomatic adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis.

Pulmonary function studies were performed in 28 asymptomatic adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Tests included spirometry, flow volume curve, measurements of inspired gas distribution, diffusing capacity, closing volume, ventilatory response to carbon dioxide, and arterial blood gas analysis. In addition to the well-known decreases in lung volumes, a reduction in diffusing capacity, arterial oxygen tension, and ventilatory response to carbon dioxide were also documented. Significant correlations existed between the severity of the spinal curvature and the decrease in lung volumes. A significant correlation was also found between the degree of hypoxemia and the reduction in the diffusing capacity, suggesting that a low diffusing could be the cause of the observed arterial hypoxemia.