Interstitial Lung Disease Specialist in Ghatkopar, Mumbai - Dr. Kumar Doshi

1. Lung Specialist in Ghatkopar, Mumbai Dr Kumar Doshi Introduction : Interstitial lung disease (ILD) encompasses a group of disorders characterised by progressive scarring of the lung tissue, which can lead to severe respiratory issues. The interstitium, a network of tissue that supports the air sacs in the lungs, becomes thickened and stiff due to inflammation and fibrosis. This scarring disrupts the normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Common Types of Interstitial Lung Disease ILD includes various subtypes, each with distinct characteristics and causes. Some common types of ILD are: ● Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): The most common type of ILD, IPF has an unknown cause and is characterised by chronic and progressive lung scarring. ● Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can affect multiple organs, including the lungs, characterised by the formation of granulomas. ● Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: An immune system disorder resulting from inhaling organic dust, moulds, or chemicals, causing lung inflammation. ● Connective Tissue Disease-Associated ILD: ILD that occurs in patients with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or lupus. ● Occupational and Environmental ILD: Caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, silica, or coal dust. Symptoms of Interstitial Lung Disease Symptoms of ILD can vary depending on the specific type and severity of the disease but often include: ● Chronic, dry cough ● Shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity ● Fatigue and weakness ● Chest discomfort ● Unintentional weight loss ● Clubbing (widening and rounding) of the fingers or toes

2. Causes of Interstitial Lung Disease ILD can be triggered by a variety of factors, including: ● Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and lupus can cause lung inflammation and fibrosis. ● Environmental and Occupational Exposures: Long-term exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, silica, grain dust, bird proteins, and mold spores can lead to ILD. ● Medications: Certain drugs used in chemotherapy, antibiotics, and heart medications can cause lung damage as a side effect. ● Infections: Chronic infections, particularly those caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi, can result in lung scarring. ● Genetic Predisposition: Familial forms of ILD suggest a genetic component in some cases. ● Idiopathic Factors: In many instances, the exact cause of ILD remains unknown, which is referred to as idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP). Diagnosing Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) : Step by Step Diagnostic Process 1. Clinical Evaluation and Medical History The first step in diagnosing ILD involves a comprehensive clinical evaluation and detailed medical history. Dr. Doshi takes the time to understand the patient's symptoms, lifestyle, occupational history, and any potential exposures to environmental toxins or irritants. Important aspects of the medical history include: ● Symptom Duration and Progression: Chronic symptoms like a persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue often prompt further investigation. ● Occupational and Environmental Exposures: Identifying potential exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, silica, mould, or bird proteins. ● Medication History: Reviewing past and current medications to rule out drug-induced lung disease. ● Family History: Understanding any familial predispositions to lung diseases or autoimmune disorders. ● Previous Medical Conditions: Checking for underlying conditions such as autoimmune diseases that could contribute to ILD.

3. 2. Physical Examination A thorough physical examination is conducted to identify signs that may suggest ILD. During the examination, Dr. Kumar Doshi pays attention to: ● Breathing Sounds: Listening for abnormal lung sounds, such as crackles or wheezing, using a stethoscope. ● Digital Clubbing: Inspecting the fingers and toes for signs of clubbing, a common symptom in chronic lung diseases. ● Skin and Joint Examination: Checking for signs of autoimmune diseases, such as skin rashes or joint swelling. 3. Bronchoscopy Bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualisation of the airways and lungs. During a bronchoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera (bronchoscope) is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs. This procedure can: ● Visual Examination: Enable the doctor to inspect the airways for abnormalities or inflammation. ● Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL): Collect fluid samples from the lower respiratory tract for analysis, helping to identify infections, inflammation, or malignant cells. ● Transbronchial Biopsy: Obtain small tissue samples from the lung for histopathological examination, aiding in the diagnosis of specific types of ILD. Treatment Plans By Dr Kumar Doshi While ILD is a progressive disease with no cure, various treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the disease's progression. Treatment options include: ● Medications: Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs can help reduce lung inflammation and slow fibrosis. Common medications include corticosteroids, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and newer antifibrotic agents like pirfenidone and nintedanib. ● Oxygen Therapy: Provides supplemental oxygen to ensure adequate oxygen levels in the blood. ● Pulmonary Rehabilitation: A comprehensive program including exercise, education, and support to improve lung function and quality of life. ● Lung Transplant: For advanced cases, a lung transplant may be considered as a last resort to replace the damaged lung with a healthy donor lung.

4. Conclusion Diagnosing interstitial lung disease is a meticulous process that requires a combination of clinical expertise, advanced diagnostic tools, and a collaborative approach. Dr. Kumar Doshi, an esteemed interstitial lung specialist in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, is dedicated to providing accurate diagnoses and personalised care for patients with ILD. His thorough and compassionate approach ensures that each patient receives the best possible care and support throughout their journey. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of ILD, consulting Dr. Doshi can provide the expertise and guidance needed for effective diagnosis and management. If you or a loved one is dealing with interstitial lung disease, finding the right specialist is crucial for effective treatment and management. Dr. Kumar Doshi, a renowned interstitial lung specialist based in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with this complex condition. With years of experience and a patient-centric approach, Dr. Doshi has established himself as a trusted name in the field of pulmonology.