Discriminant function analysis was performed on several measurements from the forced expiratory spirogram obtained in a group of first-visit patients at a medical clinic. The analysis provided a discriminant function score which is a predictive index of the presence or absence of respiratory dysfunction. The forced vital capacity as a percentage of the predicted vital capacity and the forced expiratory volume at two seconds as a percentage of the forced vital capacity were the prime discriminants. The spirometric score value was a helpful diagnostic aid to the physician in detecting a ventilation abnormality.