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Diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis
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| Diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis |
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Definition:
Diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis is the name given to a group of disorders characterized by inflammation and eventually scarring of the deep lung tissues, leading to shortness of breath. Alternative Names:
Diffuse parenchymal lung disease; Alveolitis; Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF); Cryptogenic Fibrosing Alveolitis (CFA); Idiopathic pulmonary pneumonitis (IPP)
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Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Interstitial lung diseases are a group of diseases, caused by inflammation and scarring of the alveoli (air sacs) and their supporting structures (the interstitium). This leads to the loss of the functional alveolar units and a reduction of the transfer of oxygen from air to blood. There are dozens of different causes of ILD, and the classification systems are often confusing. In fact, many experts disagree on the best classification system for the interstitial lung diseases. The interstitial lung diseases can be broken down into two large groups: those that have no known cause (idiopathic ILD) and those with an identifiable cause. One recent classification of idiopathic ILD includes the subclasses called: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis/ usual interstitial pneumonitis (IPF/UIP), non-specific interstitial pneumonitis (NSIP), and acute interstitial pneumonitis (AIP). Sarcoidosis is a relatively common disorder that often causes interstitial lung disease. Many occupational toxins, such as silica (sand) dust, asbestos fibers, coal dust, and cotton dust can cause ILD. Occasionally, hobbies such as keeping birds or bathing in hot tubs cause some forms of ILD.
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