Interstitial lung disease (ILD)

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) refers to a group of lung disorders that affect the interstitium, the tissue surrounding the air sacs of the lungs. These conditions can lead to inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, making it difficult for oxygen to move from the lungs into the bloodstream.

ILD may develop due to autoimmune diseases, environmental exposures, infections, medications or unknown causes. Over time, lung tissue may become stiff or scarred, resulting in breathing difficulties and reduced lung function.

Accurate diagnosis is important because ILD includes many different diseases that require specific treatment approaches. Evaluation typically involves clinical assessment, imaging studies such as high-resolution CT scans and specialised pulmonary function tests.

Management of ILD focuses on identifying the underlying cause, controlling inflammation, slowing disease progression and supporting lung function through medications, pulmonary rehabilitation and long-term monitoring.