Pediatric functional lung imaging and pulmonary function testing: a scoping review protocol

Objective: This scoping review aims to identify current and emerging functional lung imaging techniques that have been used in pediatric cohorts and how these techniques have been compared to pulmonary function tests. Introduction: Functional lung imaging enables the assessment of distribution of pulmonary parameters—including ventilation, perfusion, gas exchange, and biomechanics—to be mapped and quantified non-invasively throughout the lungs. In comparison to pulmonary function testing, functional lung imaging can provide additional clinically relevant information on the regional and spatial localization of lung disease. Pulmonary functional imaging has the potential to significantly benefit a pediatric cohort, giving clinicians an additional tool in assessing and managing pediatric lung disease. Eligibility criteria: Functional lung imaging techniques that have been investigated and compared or correlated with a pulmonary function test in pediatric cohorts will be identified and reviewed. Quantitative study designs and functional lung imaging techniques used in reviews and conference abstracts will be included if there is a comparative pulmonary function test. Gray literature will be screened for evidence of new and emerging technologies. Established author opinion will also be sought on new and emerging technologies in pediatric functional lung imaging. Methods: Key sources to be searched include MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL. Two reviewers will independently screen titles and abstracts against eligibility criteria. Extracted data will include details about the concept, context, study methods, and key information relevant to the study question. Data will be presented in tabular format, accompanied by a narrative synthesis. Review registration: OSF https://osf.io/snuc6