Treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a relentlessly progressive lung disease in most cases, and effective treatment is still lacking. This review examines the current status of treatment options and complexities in the management of patients with IPF. Although optimal therapy for IPF has not been identified, ongoing research efforts warrant reason for optimism. Current management of IPF includes not only judicious use of available pharmacological agents tailored to individual circumstances but also patient education through realistic assessment of prognosis, discussion of pros and cons of pharmacotherapy, early consideration of lung transplantation when applicable, treatment of complications, supportive care, and encouragement to participate in clinical trials.
Daniels
Craig E
CE
Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. daniesl.craig@mayo.edu
Ryu
Jay H
JH
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000145:classification / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016040:Lung Transplantation; D011658:Pulmonary Fibrosis / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D012307:Risk Factors
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents