Interstitial Lung Disease

WakeMed is proud to offer excellent, evidence-based medicine and care to our interstitial lung disease (ILD) pulmonary patients. We provide high-quality diagnostic testing and multidisciplinary discussion to incorporate individualized care plans for each patient. Our goal is to provide comprehensive patient education and guidance.

What is ILD and what diseases do we treat?

ILD is a group of lung diseases characterized by inflammation and scarring or fibrosis of the lungs. ILD is progressive and leads to shortness of breath and the need for supplemental oxygen over time.

The causes of ILD are diverse and varied. Here are examples:

• Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
• Connective tissue disease related ILD
• Nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP)
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
• Drug related ILD
• Exposure related ILD (asbestos, silicosis and pneumoconiosis)
• Vasculitis of the lung
• Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage
• Eosinophilic pneumonias
• Organizing pneumonia

What is our process for specialized care?

Often patients are referred to us after they have already seen their primary care physician or pulmonologist. We then do a patient-directed diagnostic workup that may include a full patient history, high resolution computed tomography (CT) scans of the lungs, pulmonary function testing and lab work to help determine next steps in treatment plans. We may also discuss lung biopsy with patients if needed.

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