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Review
. 2021 Jun;42(2):251-261.
doi: 10.1016/j.ccm.2021.03.002.

Diagnostic Classification of Interstitial Lung Disease in Clinical Practice

Ayodeji Adegunsoye  1 , Christopher J Ryerson  2
Affiliations
Review

Diagnostic Classification of Interstitial Lung Disease in Clinical Practice

Ayodeji Adegunsoye et al. Clin Chest Med. 2021 Jun.

Abstract

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are challenging to diagnose, requiring integration of multiple complex features that are often difficult to interpret. This article reviews a pragmatic approach to ILD diagnosis and classification, focusing on diagnostic tools and strategies that are used to separate different subtypes and identify the most appropriate management. We discuss the evolution of ILD classification and the contemporary approach that integrates routinely used diagnostic tools in a multidisciplinary discussion. We highlight the increasing importance of taking a multipronged approach to ILD classification that reflects the recent emphasis on disease behavior while also considering etiopathogenesis and morphologic features.

Keywords: Diagnostic classification; Interstitial lung disease; Pulmonary fibrosis.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest Disclosures A. Adegunsoye is supported by a career development award from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (K23HL146942), and has received speaking and advisory board fees from Boehringer Ingelheim and grant funding for interstitial lung disease research from the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. C.J. Ryerson is supported by a Health Professional Investigator Award from the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research.

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