MMEF??

[Brychni]

Hello all

Recently had LFT through reheumatology and everything was 'within normal' range - then I got a letter from rheumatologist saying the same thing except there was one part of the test MMEF 25/75 (or something) that was low and not something she knew about and was waiting to hear back from someone about what it meant. It was apparently 68% 'predicted'.

I'd be really grateful if someone here is able to help me understand this result.

Thanks

[WalkingFootballerUk]

Hi. I’m not a medical expert at all just read about COPD to understand better.

MMEF = maximal mid expiratory flow (rate). It’s another way to measure your airflow rate between 25% and 75%. It’s a more sensitive guide to airway disease because it doesn’t rely on patient effort.

68% predicted sounds good to me, what was your actual %? Again not really sure and can only really tell you anything with all other information about patient. How does it compare with previous test results?

I tend to use the fev1/fvc score as my main measure over time. Hope this helps. And don’t be afraid to ring them back and ask what it means or when they will be informing you about results: persistence may required here. Good luck.

[Brychni in reply to WalkingFootballerUk]

Hi Walking Footballer

thanks for your reply. I have no answers: all the rheumatologist said was that the result was 'low' at 68% predicted. She has no idea what it means and after googling myslef stupid all I can come up with is that it is a sign of COPD. Not really sure what that is. I don't have asthma and although I do have problems with lack of breath it's only been in evidence with things like sport especially running. I am fairly fit, all things considered, but I really struggle and always have with running and swimming compared to my peers (st school) and even now in my 50s. Until a couple of years ago I would still go running but was veeeeery slow and got puffed out really easily and certainly couldn't jog along with a friend and talk at the same time! I try to swim now but really have to pace myself as I feel like I'm going to die after one short length. But that's nothing new. I don't have a cough or any wheezing. I was a social smoker in my mid to late 20s but therafter only very occasionally and haven't smoked for about 5 years.

[WalkingFootballerUk in reply to Brychni]

Hi Brychni, hopefully they will do chest X-ray or CT scan or further checks to establish what is causing your breathlessness. Share your worries with them. Most conditions have medication and/or processes to manage your condition. I think they’re not supposed to but I always insist that I get a full copy of tests with any follow-up letters or at least get the raw data eg fev1/fvc from respiratory technician. The consultant should be leading further investigations imo. All the best.

[Brychni in reply to WalkingFootballerUk]

Well, I think she kind of has - which sounds vague but she told me she had followed it up because it wsn't part of what she was particularly looking for but 'they' haven't got back to her.