ILD Procedures - Treatments
It is important to distinguish the cause of the Interstitial Lung Disease since treatment can vary from one ILD to the next.
The doctors at the University of Louisville Interstitial Lung Disease Program will first need information from the following tests and procedures to diagnose ILD.
- Complete medical history and physical examination
- Chest x-ray
- Pulmonary Function Tests
- Blood tests
Additional Tests and Procedures
► Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) - This is a breathing test to measure how well a patient’s lungs work. You will be asked to perform different breathing techniques. This test can last from 60 to 90 minutes and is performed in the Pulmonary Function Lab by a specialized technician.
► Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) - This procedure involves taking a small amount of blood from an artery in the wrist to measure the oxygen in the blood. It is usually done at the same time as your breathing test (PFTs). This may be a little painful, but only takes a few minutes.
► Chest HRCT - This is a radiologic procedure called a High Resolution Computed Tomography Scan (Cat Scan) that allows the doctor to see the scarring pattern in the lungs. A more detailed picture of the lungs is seen than with a chest x-ray. It is done in the radiology department. You should arrive 30 minutes before your appointment time.
► Walk Oximetry Test - The patient’s oxygen level is monitored by a device that fits over one of the fingers while walking for six minutes. This is done to evaluate a patient’s need for oxygen. This may be done during your visit in the clinic by the PFT technician.
► Exercise Stress Test - The patient’s oxygen level, heart rate, and breathing rate are monitored while using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. This is usually done to determine safe levels for a person to exercise or to monitor a person’s progress in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.
► Bronchoalveolar Lavage - This procedure is done by using a bronchoscope (a flexible tube inserted into the airways of the lung) to inspect the lungs. Fluid (normal saline) is injected into the lungs and removed for testing in the laboratory. This is an outpatient procedure performed by the pulmonary doctor. Medication to help you relax during the procedure is given. You will need to have some one with you to drive you home.
► Lung Biopsy - This is a procedure in which tissue samples are removed from the lung to help establish a diagnosis. The biopsy can be done by using a bronchoscope or by a surgical procedure called open-lung biopsy. Open-lung biopsy requires a hospital stay. The surgeon will provide more details about this type of biopsy.
► Echocardiogram - This is an outpatient procedure to see how well your heart is working and if the lungs are causing any strain to the heart. It is done by ultrasound. It usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
► Bone Density Testing (DEXA) - This is a procedure that is done to determine if a person is at risk for bone fractures. People with lung disease may be at greater risk for developing osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become weak. The test involves a very small amount of radiation (10 DEXA tests equal about one chest x-ray). You will be asked to lie on a table and a scanner moves slowly over your body. It takes about 15 minutes. The results are available to your doctor within five to seven days
TREATMENT FOR ILD
Treatment for ILD is aimed at stopping the inflammation and scarring that damages the lungs. For ILD caused by environmental exposures, the substance is removed or the patient is instructed how to avoid the exposure.
Therapies commonly used to treat ILD include the following:
► Immunosuppressant Medications
These medications are given to decrease the body’s response to injury and inflammation.
- Prednisone
- Azathioprine (Imuran)
- Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
- Chlorambucil (Leukeran)
- Methotrexate
- Anti-fibrotic Medications
Advances in basic research have led to several novel therapies that are currently under investigation to treat or slow down the progression of fibrosis in the lungs.
► Exercise and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- To increase muscle strength
- To learn useful breathing techniques
- To obtain and maintain appropriate body weight
► Oxygen
Supplemental oxygen is important because it provides your body’s organs (like your heart, lungs, brain, and kidneys) with the oxygen it needs during exercise or other activities of daily living. You may find that you feel less tired during periods of exercise or after waking from sleep.
Commonly Used Medicines
► Immunosuppressant Medications
These medications are given to decrease the body’s response to injury and inflammation.
- Prednisone
- Azathioprine (Imuran)
- Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
- Chlorambucil (Leukeran)
- Methotrexate
► Anti-fibrotic Medications
Advances in basic research have led to several novel therapies that are currently under investigation to treat or slow down the progression of fibrosis in the lungs.
