inspiratory capacity
Maximum volume of air a person can inhale after a normal expiration, combining tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume.
Full Definition
Inspiratory capacity (IC) is a pulmonary function measurement representing the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal, quiet expiration. It is calculated as the sum of tidal volume (normal breathing volume) and inspiratory reserve volume (additional air that can be inhaled after normal inspiration). In pediatric pulmonology, inspiratory capacity values vary significantly with age, height, gender, and ethnicity, requiring age-appropriate reference values for interpretation. Reduced inspiratory capacity may indicate restrictive lung disease, respiratory muscle weakness, or chest wall abnormalities. The measurement is obtained through spirometry testing, though cooperation requirements may limit its use in very young children. Normal values typically range from 3500-3700 mL in healthy adults, with proportionally smaller values in children.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as IC in pulmonary function reports.
In Context
- "The adolescent's reduced inspiratory capacity suggested possible restrictive lung disease." — Pulmonary function test interpretation
- "Serial monitoring of inspiratory capacity helped track progression of the neuromuscular disorder." — Pediatric pulmonology follow-up note