The term "interstitial lung disease" (ILD) describes a collection of lung conditions marked by lung tissue inflammation and scarring in the spaces between air sacs. Breathing becomes difficult as a result of the fibrosis, or scarring, which stiffens the lungs and makes it harder for them to expand and contract normally. Sarcoidosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are only a few of the disorders that fall under the umbrella of ILD. The most prevalent and severe type of ILD, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), is characterized by increasing lung tissue scarring that has no recognized etiology. With a median survival of only three to five years following diagnosis, it usually affects older persons and has a terrible prognosis. Another kind of ILD is sarcoidosis, which is typified by the development of granulomas, or tiny inflammatory nodules, in a number of organs, most frequently the lymph nodes and lungs. Although the exact etiology of sarcoidosis is unknown, it is thought to be related to an aberrant immune response brought on by hereditary or environmental causes. Any age can be affected by sarcoidosis, which can cause a variety of symptoms such as coughing, exhaustion, shortness of breath, and skin lesions. An immunological reaction to inhaled environmental antigens, such as mold, bird droppings, or certain chemicals, can result in hypersensitivity pneumonitis, an ILD. Shortness of breath, coughing, and flu-like symptoms are common initial signs of this illness, which get worse the longer the offending substance is inhaled. In order to confirm the existence of fibrosis and identify the underlying cause, the diagnosis of ILD entails a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, imaging techniques (such as chest X-rays or high-resolution computed tomography scans), pulmonary function tests, and occasionally lung biopsies. ILD treatment choices vary depending on the nature and severity of the illness, but they frequently center on symptom relief, delaying the illness's progression, and enhancing quality of life. Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and antifibrotic drugs are a few examples of medications that may be used to treat fibrosis and inflammation. It might also be required to use oxygen treatment to treat dyspnea. Lung transplantation may be a possibility in certain situations for patients with severe illness and a dismal prognosis. All things considered, ILD is a complicated collection of lung conditions with different etiologies, clinical manifestations, and modes of therapy. Improving the quality of life for those who are affected and optimizing results depend heavily on early diagnosis and management.
