IP is important alternative for individuals who cannot undergo more invasive procedures due to their other underlying medical problems.

For these individuals the University of Louisville’s IP program can be pivotal in improving quality of life and extending survival.

► Symptoms

IP covers a wide variety of diseases thus individuals my experience many different symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms are cough, coughing up blood, shortness of air, and chest pain.

However, in some cases, individuals may have no symptoms but have been found to have an abnormal imaging study of the lungs.

► Diagnosis

IP is used to diagnosis many different lung diseases. This is usually accomplished by doing a biopsy in the airways, lungs, or surrounding structures.

Because these procedures are minimally invasive, individuals usually go home the same day of their procedure.

► Treatments

IP encompasses procedures to treat; and in some cases, cure very early stage lung cancer. It is also used to treat lung cancer in individuals who are not candidates for more invasive surgical procedures.

Even though IP is frequently employed in individuals with lung cancer it is also used to treat airway strictures, airway leaks, and persistent fluid around the lungs.

The University of Louisville is also pleased to be the first center in the state of Kentucky to offer the first non-pharmacological treatment for severe persistent asthma.