Sex differences in growth patterns of the airways and lung parenchyma in children

• DOI: 10.1152/jappl.1984.56.5.1204
• Publication Date: 2017-12-21T07:30:14Z
• Authors: R. D. Pagtakhan; J. C. Bjelland; L. I. Landau; G. Loughlin; W. Kaltenborn; G. Seeley; L. M. Taussig
• Keywords: Parenchyma; Sex characteristics

Seventeen boys and 19 girls, 8–15 yr in age, were studied to ascertain, the two sex groups, predictors of airway size [assessed by measurement tracheal cross-sectional area (CSA) maximal expiratory flows (Vmax)] relative rates growth major divisions airways lung parenchyma. In boys, total capacity (TLC) accounted for 77% variance CSA 66% variability Vmax. contrast, somatic maturation girls only 45% 64% Vmax; TLC was relatively unimportant. but not TLC-corrected significantly inversely related height TLC. Vmax at 50 75% forced vital directly height. These observations suggest different patterns airway-parenchymal-somatic relationships sexes. Furthermore, parenchymal appears be best determinant boys. other factors, perhaps genetic nature, besides parenchyma, may help determine size.