Respiratory Physiotherapy In Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis: A Case Study On Efficacy And Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a condition characterized by reversible airway obstruction, often occurring in individuals with asthma, cystic fibrosis, and bronchiectasis.

Methods: This study implemented a home-based respiratory physiotherapy program utilizing The Acapella DH® for oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) and the POWER brea the Plus® device for two weeks, with sessions held five days a week, twice a day (10 minutes in the morning and another 10 minutes in the afternoon). The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of this respiratory therapy through spirometry in a clinical case of ABPA, bronchial asthma, and bronchiectasis.

Results: The initial spirometric evaluation at week zero showed notable improvements in all spirometric lung function parameters after the home-based treatment program. The percentage change revealed enhancements in Vital Capacity (VC) - week 1 (0.80%), week 2 (1.09%), Tidal Volume (VT) - week 1 (0.91%), week 2 (1.04%), Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV) - week 1 (1.14%), week 2 (1.24%), Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV) - week 1 (0.66%), week 2 (1.04%), and Inspiratory Capacity (IC) - week 1 (0.69%), week 2 (0.71%). Additionally, there was a reduction in respiratory times, including inspiratory time (Ti) - week 1 (-0.31%), week 2 (-0.38%), expiratory time (Te), and total inspiratory and expiratory time (Tt) - week 1 (-0.24%), week 2 (-0.31%).

Conclusions: The home-based pulmonary treatment plan utilizing OPEP and POWER Brea the Plus demonstrated a significant improvement in lung function among individuals with ABPA, bronchiectasis, and asthma, resulting in an enhanced quality of life