Spirometry: A Historical Gallery Up to 1905 [Retrospectroscope]

In Latin, spirare means to breathe; hence, spirometry deals with the measurement of breath, which is the most common way to evaluate pulmonary function. The volume or flow of inhaled or exhaled air is so quantified, offering values that permit an assessment of respiratory performance in health and disease. Asthma, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, and obstructive lung pathologies can be gauged in their respective stages. Spirometry is an old procedure still in use that is simple and inexpensive but highly significant in health care.