Interstitial Lung Disease Programme
Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a group of conditions that cause inflammation and scarring of the lungs' interstitial tissue, which is the space between the tiny air sacs (alveoli). This scarring makes it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream, leading to difficulty breathing, fatigue, and other symptoms. At AKUH, our Interstitial Lung Disease Programme offers comprehensive care for patients with these complex conditions.
Conditions We Treat
Our programme specialises in diagnosing and treating a wide range of ILDs, including:
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF): A progressive lung disease characterised by scarring of the lung interstitium.
- Connective tissue-associated ILDs: Lung fibrosis and pneumonitis associated with connective tissue diseases or rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that causes inflammation throughout the body, often affecting the lungs.
- Pneumonitis: Inflammation of the lungs caused by various factors, including infections, medications, or environmental exposures.
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: A lung condition triggered by exposure to allergens, particularly from pigeon exposure.
Our Services
Our programme offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of patients with ILDs:
- Expert diagnosis: Advanced diagnostic tests, such as lung function test, bronchoscopy, high-resolution CT scan, and lung biopsy to accurately identify the underlying cause of ILD.
- Treatment: Treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs, including medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.
- Supportive care: Counselling, nutritional support, long-term oxygen support, and other services to help patients cope with the challenges of living with ILD.
Our Multidisciplinary Team
Our services are delivered by a team of highly skilled professionals, including:
- Pulmonologists: Specialists in lung diseases who provide expert care for patients with ILD.
- Rheumatologists: Specialists in connective tissue and rheumatic diseases who provide expert care for patients with connective tissue-related and autoimmune ILDs.
- Radiologists: Perform imaging tests to support diagnosis and monitor disease progression.
- Pathologists: Analyse tissue samples to confirm the diagnosis.
- Dietitians: Registered dietitians who provide nutritional counselling and support.
- Nurses: Provide ongoing education, support, and manage multiple aspects of ILD care.
To learn more about our highly trained and skilled experts, search on Find a Doctor under the speciality of Pulmonology.
At AKUH, our Interstitial Lung Disease Programme is committed to providing the highest quality care to patients with these complex conditions. We believe in a patient-centred approach that focuses on improving quality of life and outcomes.
