Interstitial Lung Diseases - Sound the ILD Alarm
Understanding Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs) and when they can occur is of vital importance to ensure that medical advice and support is sought as early as possible. It is also crucial to understand the signs of lung fibrosis –which can develop as a consequence in some ILDs.1,2 It is important that lung fibrosis is recognized and managed as quickly as possible, to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life and overall wellbeing, and slow down the disease’s progression.3,4
Let's learn more about ILDs and why it's important to ‘sound the ILD alarm’ for early detection and treatment.
What are ILDs?
ILDs refer to a group of over 200 conditions that can cause varying degrees of inflammation or fibrosis (scarring) in the lung tissue, or a combination of the two.6 This scarring makes it challenging for the lungs to function properly, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue.2,7 Besides Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), other diseases such as Systemic Sclerosis-Associated ILD (SSc-ILD) and rheumatoid arthritis-associated ILD (RA-ILD) are some examples of ILDs that most likely have a progressive-fibrosing phenotype.5
Understanding Lung Fibrosis
Lung Fibrosis (which can also be referred to as Pulmonary Fibrosis) is a chronic progressive disorder that affects the connective tissue in-between the lungs.2 As scar tissue accumulates, it can become increasingly difficult for individuals to breathe.8 This condition impacts lung function, quality of life, and can pose life-threatening complications.5 Severe cases of ILDs that are left untreated can develop life-threatening complications including high blood pressure, heart or respiratory failure.3 Seeking medical intervention and management is crucial to slow disease progression and alleviate these symptoms.3
Sound the ILD Alarm
Early detection is crucial for effectively managing lung fibrosis and ILDs.3,5,9 By sounding the ILD alarm, recognizing symptoms early and promptly seeking medical attention, individuals can slow down the disease’s progression and improve their quality of life.3
Life forward
References:
1. Chaing GC, Parimon T. Understanding Interstitial Lung Diseases Associated with Connective Tissue Disease (CTD-ILD): Genetics, Cellular Pathophysiology, and Biologic Drivers. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24:2405.
2. Savin IA, Zenkova MA, Sen’kova AV. Pulmonary Fibrosis as a Result of Acute Lung Inflammation: Molecular Mechanisms, Relevant In Vivo Models, Prognostic and Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Nov 29;23:14959.
3. American Lung Association. Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) [Internet]. ALA; c2024 [cited 2024 Mar 12]. Available from: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/interstitial-lung-disease.
4. Pereira CAC, Cordero S, Resende AC. Progressive fibrotic interstitial lung disease. J Bras Pneumol. 2023 Aug 21;49(5):e20230098.
5. Cottin V, Hirani NA, Hotchkin DL, Nambiar AM, Ogura T, Otaola M, et al. Presentation, diagnosis and clinical course of the spectrum of progressive-fibrosing interstitial lung diseases. Eur Respir Rev. 2018 Dec 21;27(150):180076.
6. Yioe V, Phillips G, Spencer LG. Interstitial lung disease on the acute take for the non-respiratory physician. Clin Med (Lond). 2021 Nov;21(6):e584–e590.
7. Kahlmann V, Moor CC, Wijsenbeek MS. Managing Fatigue in Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease. Chest. 2020 Nov;158(5):2026–2033.
8. Cleveland Clinic. Interstitial Lung Disease [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic; c2024 [updated 2022 Aug 05; cited 2024 Mar 12]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17809-interstitial-lung-disease.
9. Castelino FV, Moua T. Detection and Management of Interstitial Lung Diseases Associated With Connective Tissue Diseases. ACR Open Rheumatol. 2021 May;3(5)295–304.