Interstitial Lung Disease

Interstitial lung disease is a classification covering more than 200 types of lung disorders, all of which affect the interstitium, or the area surrounding the air sacs. Most of the disorders cause a thickening of the interstitium, generally resulting from excess mucous, inflammation, and scarring. The progressive scarring of lung tissue eventually interferes with the ability to breathe by reducing the intake of oxygen.  Some of the disorders also may affect blood vessels, airways to the lungs, the outside lining of the lungs (called the pleura), and even the air sacs themselves. A wide range of causes are associated with these lung disorders, including bacteria, smoking, asbestos, and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

UAB Pulmonary Services is ranked among the best programs of its kind in the nation, and our physicians are consistently listed among the Best Doctors in America for respiratory disease. We serve patients at our main campus and also at our convenient neighborhood clinics in Hoover and Gardendale.

Most UAB Pulmonary Services doctors are triple-board-certified in internal medicine, critical care, and pulmonary medicine. They serve on national boards and specialty organizations, speak at national conferences, publish in scientific and medical journals, and conduct research that is recognized nationally and internationally. Our physicians are continually seeking new ways to treat lung disease and improve the care for patients.

Videos

Resources

• Pulmonary Fibrosis/Interstitial Lung Disease
• Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine

Related Specialties

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
• Smoking Cessation