Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Overview

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis is a type of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia of unknown origin that causes lung fibrosis and restrictive lung disease. It characteristically involves only the lung and has no extrapulmonary manifestations except clubbing.

Signs and Symptoms

Dry cough, Exertional dyspnea, Malaise, Weight loss, Arthralgia, Finger clubbing, Cyanosis

Common Causes

Idiopathic (unknown cause)

Risk Factors

Older age group, Male gender, Genetics, Smoking, Occupational dust or fume exposure

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Arterial blood gases, C-reactive protein, Immunoglobulins, ANA rheumatoid factor, Chest X-ray, CT chest, Spirometry, Bronchoalveolar lavage, Lung biopsy

Treatment and Prevention

Oxygen therapy, Pulmonary rehabilitation, Steroid therapy, Lung transplantation