Interstitial Lung Disease

• Occupation or Environmental exposure to dust or fumes or chemicals
• Auto-immune diseases like Rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma
• Drugs like amiodarone, bleomycin etc
• Radiation received during cancer treatment
• Infections may mimic ILDc

Sometimes the cause is not known despite investigation when it’s called as ‘Idiopathic’

Progressive worsening shortness of breath Dry cough Increased respiratory rate Sometimes its incidentally diagnosed on chest X-ray or Pulmonary function test done for some other reason. Sometimes it’s associated with joint pain, photosensitivity, hair loss, skin abnormalities when its associated with connective tissue disorder.

After taking thorough history, doctor may advice you following test Blood tests to tests for autoimmune disorders, Chest X-ray, HRCT scan of the chest, Breathing tests, also called "pulmonary function tests" – These tests measure how well the lungs are working. ECG and 2D ECHO In some cases, Bronchoscopy for BAL+ Lung biopsy or Thoracoscopic lung biopsy may be required to confirm the type of ILD.

• Chest X-ray showing reticulo-nodular opacity
• HRCT chest showing ground glass opacity
• HRCT Chest showing honeycombing

Treatment depends on what is the cause and how severe is the disease. If its because of infection, you will be prescribed medicine. If it is caused by auto immune disorder then you will be started on treatment for the same which may include immunosuppressive medicine. Many people with interstitial lung disease are treated with:

• Oxygen supplement
• Steroid to reduce inflammation. These are not the same as the steroids some athletes take illegally.
• Immunosuppressive medicine
• Pulmonary rehab – In pulmonary rehab, people learn exercises and ways to breathe that can help with symptoms.

To learn more about chest physiotherapy and breathing exercises Click Here

All of the above would control the progression. Once fibrosis has occurred it can not be reversed. LUNG TRANSPLANT is the only curative option.

To learn more, Visit

(Apollo Hospital, Chennai)

(KIMS HOSPITAL, SECUNDERABAD)