Idiopathic interstitial pneumonia history and symptoms

The most important point to be remembered in history of IIP patiets is the age, sex and race. The age at which the patient presents first can provide a clue to the cause of IIP. Below are a few examples .

• IPF occurs almost only in adult age group beyong 50 yrs.
• Sarcoidosis is more common in young and middle-aged adults than elderly. Also its more comon in African-American females.
• Pulmonary histiocytosis X occurs typically in cigarette smokers who are young.
• Respiratory bronchiolitis (RB-ILD) is more common in heavy cigarette smokers . There is no specific age group that it affects.
• Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) affects pre-menopausal women .

The initial symptoms of Idiopathic interstitial pneumonia are:

• Dyspnea which has a gradual onset > 6 months
• Nonproductive cough refractory to antitussive agents
• Low grade fever

However, sometimes a few symptoms due to the co-existing pathology are seen. Hence the following symptoms suggesting a connective tissue disorder should be carefully investigated.

• Joint pains or swelling
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Photosensitivity
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Pleuritis
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth

A lot of Idiopathic interstitial pneumonia cases have co-existing emphysema symptoms.

• Symptoms of emphysema
  • Hyperventilation
  • Chest expansion
  • Bluish discoloration of lips and fingers (Cyanosis)
  • Wheezing

• Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension
  • Fatigue
  • Syncope
  • Chest pain
  • Near Syncope
  • Palpitations
  • Leg swelling
  • Hemoptysis
  • Hoarseness

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