Fibrosing Alveolitis

Question 1

What is fibrosing alveolitis?

Answer 1

It is the progressive thickening of the walls in the alveoli of the lungs. Persistent immuno-inflammatory response, days regulated tissue repair, scar tissue laid down. Leads to pulmonary fibrosis

Question 2

Cause?

Answer 2

The exact cause in unknown however there are thought to be potential triggers such as environmental changes, exposure to hazards such as asbestos or other airbourne agents, smoking.

Question 3

Signs and symptoms?

Answer 3

SoB
Fatigue
Dry cough
Flu-like symptoms
CXR showed thickened lung tissue ‘honeycomb’
Fine end inspiration crackles on auscultation

Question 4

Treatment?

Answer 4

If stable no specific treatment just regular monitoring.
In progressive condition corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, home oxygen therapy, lung transplant

Physiotherapy Rx: encouragement and motivation, positioning, deep breathing exercises.