title: Newer modes of treating interstitial lung disease.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This review critically discusses recent advances in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Moreover, it also focuses on the practical approach of a patient diagnosed with IPF and uncovers challenges for the future.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Treatment can be divided into three major parts. Firstly, many new agents have been tested, but only the combination of N-acetylcysteine with corticosteroids, azathioprine and pirfenidone was able to show some significant effects. In the mean time, many second-generation agents are under development. Lung transplantation has made some major progress by introducing an appropriate allocation system. Finally, as part of best supportive care, several studies show that pulmonary rehabilitation might induce some important effects on quality of life.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  So, it is clear that major progress has been made in the treatment of IPF, but we are convinced that an orchestrated effort will lead to a better understanding and treatment of this devastating condition.
authors: Unit for Interstitial Lung Diseases, Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. wim.wuyts@uzleuven.be
authors: Wim A
authors: WA
authors: Wuyts
authors: Michiel
authors: M
authors: Thomeer
authors: Maurits G
authors: MG
authors: Demedts