2. Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary Fibrosis is a chronic lung disease that causes
inflammation, scarring, thickening and stiffening of the
lung’s tissues.
Affects 5,000,000 people worldwide
Usually occurs most often in people between the ages of
50 – 70
Commonly referred to as “Idiopathic Pulmonary
Fibrosis” (idiopathic meaning no cause can be found)
3. Diagnosing Pulmonary Fibrosis
A series of tests will be performed to confirm
diagnosis:
Bronchoscopy
Tests for connective tissue diseases such as Rheumatoid
Arthritis and Scleroderma
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Pulmonary Function Tests
6. What is the cause?
Workplace
Medications
Genetic
Cigarette Smoking
Drug Use
7. Symptoms
Occasional Chest Pain
Rapid Weight Loss
Fatigue and Weakness
Chest Discomfort
Loss of Appetite
Cough (usually dry)
Shortness of Breath
Dyspnea on Exertion
Decreased tolerance for activity
8. Patient Assessment
Abnormal breath sounds on auscultation – Crackles
(especially in the lower lung fields)
Cyanosis around the mouth or fingernails (in
advanced stages)
Digital Clubbing
10. Treatment
No known cure exists for Pulmonary Fibrosis
Medications such as corticosteroids reduce swelling
and inflammation
OXYGEN
Lung Transplant in advanced stages
Rehabilitation and Education programs
11. Research
Research on medications is currently being
performed:
Acetylcysteine – may prevent further damage to the lungs
Interferon gamma-1b - manmade version of a substance that
your body normally produces to help fight infections
Pirfenidone – may reduce scarring
Colchicine – may slow scarring process
Penicillamine – may improve lung function
12. References
American Association of Respiratory Care www.aarc.org
Net Wellness www.netwellness.org
American Lung Association www.lungusa.org
Mayo Clinic www.mayoclinic.com
www.answers.com
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute www.nhbi.gov
www.Pulmonaryfibrosis.org
www.emedicine.com
www.american-depot.com
www.kentslungtransplant.com
