CHEST Guidelines-CT-Scan-Segmental-Airway-Lumen-Area--Response

CT-Scan-Segmental-Airway-Lumen-Area--Response_ches

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In a letter to the editor published in the journal CHEST, David J. Ross and Victoria J. Sebbage comment on a study by Thomson and colleagues, which found that the airway lumen is reduced in smokers with asthma compared to those who have never smoked. Ross and Sebbage propose that socioeconomic status (SES) in early life could be an unconsidered factor affecting lung function, as both lower SES and smoking correlate with reduced pulmonary performance and are often linked. They also point out that using height instead of body surface area could provide more insight into SES-related effects on airway size. They noted an inconsistency in the reported data, suggesting a transcription error in Table 1 that misrepresented the left bronchial lumen area, potentially affecting the study's conclusions.<br /><br />In their response, authors Thomson, McSharry, and Chaudhuri acknowledge the contributions of Ross and Sebbage and recognize that SES could influence airway lumen size. They point out that height was similar between both groups examined in their study but admit the cross-sectional study design limits the ability to test the influence of early-life SES. They confirm a reported transcription error in their original table and correct the airway measurements, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of their findings. <br /><br />The response highlights that while the study was funded and supported by several healthcare and research organizations, the authors declare no conflicts of interest, maintaining the objectivity of their research. The discourse reflects a collaborative effort to refine scientific methods and interpretations, underscoring the complex interplay between health factors and socioeconomic influences.

Keywords

airway lumen

smokers

asthma

socioeconomic status

lung function

body surface area

transcription error

cross-sectional study

pulmonary performance

scientific collaboration