Key questions on pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease

Consultant respiratory physician Professor Peter George answers key questions on the diagnosis and management of pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease

Module Summary

Pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease represent a complex and often under-recognised group of conditions that can have profound consequences for patients’ respiratory health and overall prognosis.

Despite their severity, these diseases can be misdiagnosed in primary care due to their insidious onset and overlap with more common conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure. Early identification is therefore critical, particularly as advances in treatment mean that timely intervention can significantly alter disease progression and improve quality of life.

In this module, Professor Peter George, a leading respiratory physician and clinical lead for interstitial lung disease, addresses key questions surrounding the definition, causes, diagnosis and management of pulmonary fibrosis and related disorders.

The article highlights the importance of recognising hallmark symptoms such as persistent dry cough and unexplained breathlessness, as well as the role of high-resolution imaging and specialist referral in confirming diagnosis. It also explores current therapeutic options, including antifibrotic and immunosuppressive treatments, alongside supportive and palliative care strategies.  

Learning objectives

This module will enhance knowledge of pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease, including:

• The definition and features of pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease and the main causes.
• How to spot signs of pulmonary fibrosis and the importance of early diagnosis.
• What investigations to do and when to refer.
• The treatments and supportive care available to patients and how the disease is likely to progress.
• When to consider palliative care and what can be offered at this point.

Date published: 9.04.26

Author: Professor Peter George is a consultant respiratory physician and clinical lead for interstitial lung disease at Royal Brompton Hospital