Description

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Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) or pulmonary fibrosis is a group of lung conditions that involves inflammation and scarring or fibrosis of lung tissues. In this condition, it becomes difficult for the lungs to get enough oxygen. This condition results in shortness of breath and dry cough. The exact cause of ILD is unknown but several factors such as smoking, radiation treatment, certain drugs and medicines, certain connective tissue or collagen diseases, and sarcoidosis may contribute in its development. The common symptoms of ILD include bleeding in the lungs, extreme tiredness and weakness, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and chest discomfort. The most common diagnostic methods used to determine ILD are pulmonary function tests such as spirometry and peak flow monitoring. Chest X-rays, blood tests, and bronchoscopy are some other tests to measure the ability of lungs to move air in and out. Treatment of ILD involves several forms of medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, lung transplant and surgery. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to the clinical management of interstitial lung disease. For all those who are interested in this medical condition, this book can prove to be an essential guide.