The pragmatic role of FEF25-75 in asymptomatic subjects, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and in military setting.

Introduction: The forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of forced vital capacity (FEF25-75) is a spirometry parameter that may be useful in many clinical settings. Values <65% of predicted have been defined as abnormal.Areas covered: The current report discusses the clinical value of FEF25-75 in different settingv, namely military medicine, primary care, and specialized clinic. Moreover, the predictive role of FEF25-75 was discussed considering different patients' populations, including patients suffering from allergic rhinitis and/or asthma, as well as normal subjects. The most recent literature concerning the assessment of FEF25-75 in these covered areas was searched.Expert opinion: In clinical practice, impaired values have been defined as a reliable surrogate marker for bronchial airflow limitation associated with early onset of asthma, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, lower airway inflammation, reversibility to bronchodilation testing, allergic sensitization, and uncontrolled asthma. In the military medicine setting, simple spirometry, including FEF25-75, may suggest a series of fruitful information.