Interesting Lung Diseases (ILDs) are characterized by pathological changes in Pulmonary parenchyma. It is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the lungs. This can be caused by medication, radiation therapy or inhaling harmful substances. The risk of lung cancer is increased in patients with interstitial lung disease. ILD can be caused by number of environmental toxins, infections, genetic factors etc.
Lung Cancer continues to be the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Over the past few decades, there has been ongoing discussion regarding the association between ILD and occurrence of lung cancer. There’s complex interplay between lung cancer and ILD, affecting disease progression, management strategies and patient outcomes. Patients with ILD, especially those with Pulmonary Fibrosis, have a higher chance of lung cancer in comparison with general population. Some studies also suggest that risk can be 3.5 to 7.3 times higher in ILD patients. The common risk factors of both ILD and lung cancer include smoking and environmental toxins expsoure. In presence of ILD, lung cancer management gets complicated both diagnostically and therapeutically. The challenges that come in lung cancer treatment are trouble in interpreting radiological results and higher risk of treatment-related toxicities. As there’s lack of large trials, evidence-based therapeutic options for patients with ILD remain limited.
Lung cancer screening has emerged as an effective strategy for improving diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer in general populations. However, current screening guidelines are not designed to improve detection of lung cancer among adults with ILD. There’s need to follow multidisciplinary approach and practical considerations for monitoring of ILD progression during treatment of lung cancer. This is an emerging area of research and need more concrete studies for conclusion.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only. You should always seek medical advice for any health issues.
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