Medical Conditions in focus
Interstitial lung diseases
Interstitial lung diseases are a group of lung diseases that affect the lung tissue in the interstitial space (interstitium). These diseases lead to inflammation and scarring of the tissue, which can impair oxygen uptake and lung function. The most common symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath during physical exertion and, in advanced stages, also at rest.
Causes and risk factors
The exact causes of interstitial lung diseases are often unclear, but they can be triggered or favoured by various factors such as long-term exposure to pollutants, smoking, environmental factors or autoimmune diseases. In some cases, a genetic predisposition is involved.
Assessment and Diagnosis
The diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases requires a thorough investigation. This includes measuring lung function, blood tests, X-rays or a computer tomography (CT) scan to visualise the changes in the lung tissue. In some cases, a lung biopsy may also be necessary to determine the exact type of lung disease.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the disease. It aims to alleviate the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Possible treatment options include
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (such as corticosteroids) and immunosuppressants for autoimmune diseases.
- Antifibrotics: In certain forms of interstitial lung disease such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), antifibrotics are used. These drugs, f.e. pirfenidone or nintedanib, aim to slow down the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the lungs and thus slow down the progression of the disease.
- In some cases, oxygen therapy may also be necessary to support the body’s oxygen supply.
In advanced stages of the disease, when lung function is severely impaired, a lung transplant may be an option.