Ulna Length in Black Children

Height measurement is unreliable when neuromuscular weakness or spinal deformity is present. The aim of this study was to accurately predict pulmonary function from a limb segment (ulna) measurement that is precise and reproducible. Equations are available in caucasian children but are not available in children of sub-saharian or caribbean ethnicity, which was the aim of the study. To this end, 350 black children referred for pulmonary function testing for asthma follow-up will be included.

Ulna (dominant and non-dominant arm), height measurement in 350 asthmatic children of sub-saharian or caribbean ethnicity (both parents). Repeatability analysis (ulna and height) for the first fifty children. Recording of pulmonary function tests results (spirometry, resistance measurements)