Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
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Abstract
Diffuse parenchymal lung disease primarily affects the lung's interstitial tissue. The utilization of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) is common in diagnosing, assessing severity and monitoring treatment response. Among the various PFTs, spirometry and the measurement of diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLco) are routinely employed. The objective of this study was to examine the demographic and radiological characteristics of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) and to evaluate the severity and progression of these conditions. We conducted a prospective and observational study involving individuals aged over 12 years at a tertiary care center. Patients with clinical suspicion of ILDs were recommended to undergo high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Among those diagnosed with ILDs, spirometry was performed at their initial visit and then again at the 6-month follow-up. Treatment was administered according to established guidelines. 115 participants (67 males and 48 females) were enrolled in the study. The mean age was 42.5 years and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 25.1 kg m‾². The participants included 32.17% smokers, 10.43% ex-smokers and 57.39% non-smokers. The most common symptoms encountered were exertional dyspnea and dry cough. Spirometry parameters, including forced expiratory volume at 1 sec (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio, DLCO, as well as the gender, age and physiology (GAP) index, had mean values of 48.75, 53.30, 94.20, 43.80 and 3.60, respectively. A significant decline in lung function was observed after 6 months (p<0.05). The most frequently observed radiological patterns were septal thickening and traction bronchiectasis. The spirometry data of ILD patients predominantly displayed a restrictive pattern of moderate severity, with a high incidence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Most ILDs were observed to be progressive, with a decline in lung function over time, regardless of smoking status.
How to cite this article:
Amit Jitendrabhai Asari, Shital A. Patel, Rajesh P. Pimpaldara and Kamleshkumar Parsingbhai Ninama. Pulmonary Function Testing in the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Interstitial Lung Diseases.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.10.1.4
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2023.10.1.4