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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2006; 27(6): 668-676
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-957338
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Craig E. Daniels1 , Jay H. Ryu1
  • 1Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
29 December 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a relentlessly progressive lung disease in most cases, and effective treatment is still lacking. This review examines the current status of treatment options and complexities in the management of patients with IPF. Although optimal therapy for IPF has not been identified, ongoing research efforts warrant reason for optimism. Current management of IPF includes not only judicious use of available pharmacological agents tailored to individual circumstances but also patient education through realistic assessment of prognosis, discussion of pros and cons of pharmacotherapy, early consideration of lung transplantation when applicable, treatment of complications, supportive care, and encouragement to participate in clinical trials.

KEYWORDS

Bosentan - idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - N-acetylcysteine - pirfenidone - pulmonary hypertension

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Craig E DanielsM.D. 

Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Desk East 18, Mayo Clinic

200 1st St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905

Email: daniels.craig@mayo.edu

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