Predicted Forced Vital Capacity

\[\begin{aligned} FVC_{male} &= 0.0576H-0.026A-4.34 \\ FVC_{female} &= 0.0443H-0.026A-2.89 \end{aligned}\]

Variables

FVCmalepredicted forced vital capacity for males (L)

FVCfemalepredicted forced vital capacity for females (L)

Hheight (cm)

Aage (years)

Description

What is this formula?

Predicted Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) estimates the maximum volume of air that can be forcibly exhaled after a full inspiration. It provides the reference value against which measured spirometry results are compared.

When to use it

Use this formula when interpreting spirometry, evaluating restrictive or obstructive lung diseases, screening respiratory disorders, or assessing pulmonary function before surgery.

Example

Data:

Male

Height = 180 cm

Age = 45 years

Formula:

FVCmale = 0.0576H − 0.026A − 4.34

Substitution:

FVCmale = (0.0576 × 180) − (0.026 × 45) − 4.34

FVCmale = 10.368 − 1.170 − 4.340

FVCmale = 4.86 L

Result:

Predicted FVC = 4.86 L

Applications

- Spirometry interpretation

- Pulmonary function testing

- Respiratory disease screening

- Occupational health evaluations

- Preoperative assessment

Note

This equation is an empirical population-based model. Different countries, ethnic groups, and pulmonary laboratories may use alternative prediction equations. Modern guidelines increasingly recommend GLI reference equations, which can produce values different from older regression models.