Interstitial Lung Disease
Comprehensive care for interstitial lung diseases (ILD) including pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and connective tissue disease-related lung disease.
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Understanding Interstitial Lung Disease
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) refers to a large group of disorders that cause progressive scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue. The "interstitium" is the tissue between the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. When this tissue becomes inflamed or scarred, it leads to stiff lungs and difficulty with oxygen exchange.
ILD encompasses over 200 different diseases, ranging from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) to ILD associated with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma.
Did You Know? ILDs affect approximately 1 in 200 adults. Some forms like IPF have a worse prognosis than many cancers, but new treatments have dramatically improved outcomes.
Types of Interstitial Lung Disease
🫁 Idiopathic Interstitial Pneumonias
- Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Most common and severe
- Nonspecific Interstitial Pneumonia (NSIP): Better prognosis
- Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia (COP): Responds to steroids
- Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonia (DIP): Linked to smoking
🩺 Secondary ILD
- Connective Tissue Disease-ILD: RA, Scleroderma, Lupus
- Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Bird fancier's, Farmer's lung
- Drug-Induced ILD: Amiodarone, Methotrexate
- Occupational ILD: Asbestosis, Silicosis
- Sarcoidosis: Inflammatory ILD with granulomas
Common Symptoms of ILD
Symptoms typically develop gradually and worsen over months to years:
Progressive Shortness of Breath
Initially with exertion, later at rest
Fatigue
Extreme tiredness affecting daily activities
Diagnostic Process
📋 Imaging Studies
- High-Resolution CT (HRCT): Gold standard for diagnosis
- Chest X-ray: May show interstitial markings (less sensitive)
🫁 Pulmonary Function Tests
- Spirometry: Reduced FVC (restrictive pattern)
- Diffusion Capacity (DLCO): Reduced gas exchange
- 6-Minute Walk Test: Assesses functional capacity
Treatment Options
💊 Antifibrotic Medications
Pirfenidone (Esbriet)
- Slows decline in lung function by ~50%
- Reduces risk of acute exacerbations
Nintedanib (Ofev)
- Slows disease progression
- For IPF and progressive fibrosing ILD
❤️ Supportive & Symptom Management
Oxygen Therapy
- Improves quality of life
- Reduces shortness of breath
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- Exercise training
- Breathing techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Our ILD Center?
Comprehensive interstitial lung disease care
ILD Multidisciplinary Team
Pulmonology, radiology, pathology
Advanced Diagnostics
HRCT, cryobiopsy, genetic testing
Antifibrotic Therapy
Pirfenidone and Nintedanib
Lung Transplant Program
Affiliated transplant center
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Emergency Contact
+91 858-680-5004
24/7 available for respiratory emergencies