Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the single terminology used for a group of disorders that result in lung damage, make breathing difficult and impair the lungs' ability to carry oxygen. Gradually, it leads to pulmonary fibrosis and shrinkage of the lung size and capacity. Globally, the yearly incidence of ILDs varies, ranging from 6.27 to 97.9 per 100,000 people.
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) can be caused due to various factors:
- Occupational and Environmental exposures: Exposure to environmental toxins and dusts; asbestos, silica dust, coal dusts and others. Exposures in industries like mining, construction, and agriculture can increase the risk of developing ILD.
- Autoimmune disorders: Some auto-immune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), systemic lupus erythematosus, and sarcoidosis, can cause inflammation in the lungs, leading to ILD.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and viral pneumonia, can trigger inflammation and scarring in the lungs, contributing to ILD.
- Genetic factors: Familial forms of ILD can be caused by genetic factors. Familial forms of ILD, such as familial pulmonary fibrosis, are rare but can occur due to inherited gene mutations.
- Idiopathic: In some cases, the exact cause of ILD is unknown, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP); idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common type of ILD, characterized by progressive scarring of the lung tissue with no identifiable cause.
Clinical Features: ILD is often considered a silent threat to respiratory health because its symptoms can be subtle and develop gradually over time. These symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing, sometimes with phlegm
- Weight loss
- Discomfort in the chest
These symptoms are frequently attributed to their conditions. ILD can progress slowly, with lung damage accumulating before noticeable symptoms arise.
It’s essential for individuals with ILD to work closely with healthcare professionals to identify potential causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.
