The American journal of the medical sciences
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Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive fibrosing lung disorder characterized by progressive dyspnea, exercise intolerance and, ultimately, respiratory failure and death. The incidence of IPF seems to be increasing, whereas its etiology remains unelucidated. ⋯ Consequently, the management of IPF focuses on the early identification of subjects for lung transplantation and on the treatment of comorbidities such as hypoxemia, cough and deconditioning. Until effective therapies are identified, patients and referring physicians are urged to consider participation in well-designed clinical trials.
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Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is characterized by progressive fibrosis of the lung and poor prognosis. This is the case report of a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis that highlights many of the controversies inherent in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.