Interstitial Lung Disease (cont.)Medical Author:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MDMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. Medical Editor:
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACRDr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. In this Article
How is interstitial lung disease treated?
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The choice of treatment depends upon a number of factors including the cause of the interstitial lung disease and the overall health status of the patient. Most commonly, corticosteroid drugs are given in an attempt to reduce the inflammation. Sometimes, immune-suppressing drugs, such as azathioprine (Imuran) or cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) are also given, either in combination with steroids or following a course of steroid treatment. Some patients with interstitial lung disease benefit from oxygen therapy and/or respiratory therapy (pulmonary rehabilitation) to improve daily functioning. Smoking cessation is critical for those with interstitial lung disease. Finally, in severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered in certain patients. Last Editorial Review: 1/27/2009 Patient CommentsViewers share their comments
Interstitial Lung Disease - Describe Your Experience
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Interstitial Lung Disease - Causes
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Interstitial Lung Disease - Symptoms
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Interstitial Lung Disease - Treatments
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