Newer modes of treating interstitial lung disease

[Chronic critically ill patients from a pneumological perspective]

Epidemiological estimates predict an increase in patients with chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma; therefore, increasing numbers of patients with preexisting lung diseases who require intensive care treatment are to be expected. These patients tend to have complex disease patterns and are difficult to wean from mechanical ventilation after intubation. It is not uncommon for these patients to need permanent mechanical ventilation after an acute illness. Also the question of limiting therapy, the need for treatment with a palliative objective and supervision of patients as well as their relatives at the end of life is a challenge for intensive care physicians when treating acutely ill patients with chronic pulmonary diseases.

Palliative and end-of-life care for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: challenges and dilemmas

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, life-threatening interstitial lung disease of unknown aetiology and with limited proven treatment options. As it is predominantly a disease of older age, a growing elderly population will increase its incidence. IPF has a poor prognosis, with a median survival of 3-5 years after diagnosis and a 5-year survival rate of 10-15%. Patients may suffer gradual decline but acute and unpredictable episodes of respiratory failure may result in death. Further research is needed to ascertain the worth of potential prognostic indicators such as age, respiratory hospitalisations, percentage of predicted forced vital capacity (FVC), and 24-week change in FVC. Integration of palliative care principles into IPF treatment is essential, including advance care planning, relief of physical and psychological burden, and patient and carer education. It is unknown whether pulmonary rehabilitation is of benefit but it may improve fatigue and functional capacity.