Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Symptoms

Initial symptoms:

• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath

Over time, as the disease progresses:

• Severe shortness of breath, limiting daily activities.
• When the doctor listens to the lungs, a dry crackling sound can be heard, similar to the opening of Velcro.
• Abnormal nail shape (watch-glass nails) and thickening of the fingertips (clubbed fingers).

Diagnosis only in a specialised centre

• Before a diagnosis can be made, all other causes of scar tissue formation must be ruled out.
• The diagnosis can only be established in a centre with extensive experience in this rare disease. It is crucial that all data are reviewed in a meeting with pulmonary fibrosis experts, radiologists specialising in this condition, and a pathologist with significant experience in this field.
• Recently, a specific medication for IPF has become available, but reimbursement is only possible under strict criteria set by the authorities.

Treatment

Below are some potential treatment options for this condition. After diagnosis, your doctor, together with you and the other team physicians, will determine the best solution for you. Your treatment may therefore differ from the therapies listed below.

Tests and diagnosis

If you are (suspected of) suffering from this condition, we carry out one or more tests.

Links

• ERN LUNG