Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Care at Arizona Pulmonary Specialists

What is ILD?

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term for a large group of lung disorders that cause inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of lung tissue. Over time, this scarring stiffens the lungs, making it harder to take in oxygen.

There are many types of ILD, and diagnosis can be challenging. However, early and accurate diagnosis is essential to slow disease progression and preserve lung function.

Some forms of ILD are caused by environmental exposures, autoimmune diseases, or smoking, while others have no known cause.

Types of ILD

ILD includes several subtypes, often referred to by their abbreviations:

• IPF – Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
• NSIP – Non-Specific Interstitial Pneumonitis
• HP – Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
• RBILD – Respiratory Bronchiolitis Interstitial Lung Disease
• DIP – Desquamative Interstitial Pneumonitis
• EG – Eosinophilic Granuloma (also called Histiocytosis X, Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis)
• UIP – Usual Interstitial Pneumonia
• LIP – Lymphocytic Interstitial Pneumonitis

Because ILD is a highly complex condition, seeing a specialist for precise diagnosis and treatment planning is crucial.

Symptoms of ILD

Symptoms of ILD often develop gradually and worsen over time. Many patients experience delayed diagnosis because symptoms can mimic other lung conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath that often worsens with activity
• Chronic dry cough
• Fatigue and weakness
• Chest tightness or discomfort

It is common to have been treated repeatedly for pneumonia or asthma before a referral to a lung specialist is made.

Diagnosing ILD

Because ILD has many subtypes and causes, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the exact condition. At Arizona Pulmonary Specialists, our diagnostic tools include:

• Comprehensive medical history – Assessing smoking history, occupational exposures (asbestos, dust, mold), and autoimmune conditions
• Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) – Measure lung capacity and function
• High-resolution CT scans – Provide detailed imaging of lung tissue
• Blood tests – Identify autoimmune conditions or infections
• Six-minute walk test – Evaluates oxygen levels during activity

In some cases, a lung biopsy is necessary for confirmation. This can be done through:

• Bronchoscopy – A minimally invasive procedure to collect small tissue samples
• VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery) – A surgical biopsy for more detailed analysis

Treatment of ILD

Accurate diagnosis helps guide personalized treatment plans for each patient. Our treatment approaches may include:

Stopping Disease Progression

If smoking or environmental exposures are contributing to ILD, eliminating these triggers is critical.

Medications

Treatment varies based on ILD type. Many patients require anti-inflammatory or antifibrotic medications to slow disease progression. For example:

• Antifibrotic therapy (nintedanib, pirfenidone) – FDA-approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)
• Corticosteroids or immunosuppressants – Used for autoimmune-related ILDs

Oxygen Therapy

For patients with low oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen can improve energy, breathing, and overall well-being.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Supervised exercise and breathing therapy help improve lung function, endurance, and quality of life.

Advanced Treatment Options

For severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered.

Regular Vaccinations

Regular flu shots and pneumonia vaccinations are recommended for patients with ILD.

Because ILD management is highly individualized, our specialists work closely with each patient to develop the most effective treatment plan.

ILD Research and Clinical Trials

Arizona Pulmonary Specialists actively participates in ILD research and clinical trials. We frequently offer opportunities for patients to access new medications for ILD. Ask your doctor if you’re interested in participating.

Why Choose Arizona Pulmonary Specialists?

• Top ILD experts – Pulmonologists specializing in complex lung diseases and fibrosis
• Advanced diagnostic testing – Precision tools to identify and classify ILD subtypes
• Cutting-edge treatments – Access to new medications, clinical trials, and lung transplant evaluations
• Comprehensive, personalized care – Tailored treatment plans based on your unique needs

Physicians Specializing in ILD

Our multidisciplinary team of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists work together to provide comprehensive ILD care. We ensure patients receive the latest treatments while staying informed about their condition.