Interstitial lung disease: diagnosis and management principles

Abstract

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) encompasses a diverse group of chronic, often progressive, parenchymal lung disorders with varying aetiologies. Advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) increasingly play a crucial role in the multidisciplinary management of ILD patients across a variety of healthcare settings, enabling timely access to specialised expertise, co-ordinating multidisciplinary care and enhancing patient understanding. An awareness of the principles of diagnosis and management are key to support patient care, as ACPs will need to consider the type of ILD, and its trajectory and prognosis, with and without treatment. Most importantly, the views and health beliefs of the patient must take centre stage, with careful assessment and counselling required prior to commencing treatment. Multimorbidity is common and may impact on both symptoms and treatment tolerance. Considering the holistic needs of the patient is essential and a focus on quality of life should remain a priority. This review examines the nature of ILDs and summarises their treatment principles, with a specific focus on symptom management.