The standard approach to treating pulmonary fibrosis involves first determining if the pattern is typical of IPF or if the pattern is not typical.  This assessment is primarily based on high resolution CT characteristics in combination with patient characteristics (age greater than 50, cough and shortness of breath, crackles and clubbing on lung exam). Patients … [Read more...]

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is just one of many types of pulmonary fibrosis.  In patients with IPF, no other cause can be found and the disease has a typical radiographic pattern and when biopsied has a characteristic appearance under the microscope.   Scleroderma is a connective tissue disease characterized by skin thickening, esophageal … [Read more...]

IPF remains a difficult disease to treat.  In the last few years OFEV and Esbriet were approved and have been effective in slowing the progression but most patients will still progress over time.  The search for new and better therapies to treat IPF continues and one of several exciting candidates is Pamrevlumab.  This is an antibody to CTGF (connective tissue growth factor).  … [Read more...]

If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, you may have a range of emotions. It’s common for patients and loved ones to feel fear, anxiety, and sadness. Some people also feel helpless. Although treatment may decrease symptoms, there is currently no cure for pulmonary fibrosis. But research continues, which will one day hopefully lead … [Read more...]

A lung transplant may be a treatment option for some people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Whether you qualify for a transplant depends on your age and co-morbidities, which means additional health problems you may have. Your ability to do what is required before and after the transplant is also considered. Candidates for transplants must be selected carefully. If you … [Read more...]