Diagnosis:
Interstitial pneumonia (disorder)
Spanish:
Interstitial pneumonia (disorder)
Description
Diffuse inflammation of the lung that predominantly affects the alveoli, which are the gas exchange units, and the interstitium surrounding them (the area through which the pulmonary capillaries circulate). When the affectation remains in time, fibrosis and thickening of the alveolar walls are generated, making gas exchange difficult.
Explanation
Interstitial lung disease describes a large group of disorders, most of which have a prolonged (chronic) course and cause progressive scarring of the lung tissue. The scarring associated with interstitial lung disease ultimately affects the ability to breathe and deliver sufficient oxygen to the bloodstream.
Interstitial lung disease can result from continuous exposure to hazardous materials, such as asbestos. Some types of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause interstitial lung disease. However, in some cases, the cause is unknown.
Scarring of the lung is usually irreversible. Medications can slow the damage of interstitial lung disease, but many people never regain full use of their lungs. Lung transplantation is an option for some people with interstitial lung disease.
Other acceptable terms
- Interstitial pneumonia
- Interstitial pneumonitis
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