Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Key diagnostic criteria for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in primary care include:
- Age over 45 years.
- Persistent breathlessness on exertion.
- Persistent cough.
- Bilateral inspiratory crackles on chest auscultation.
- Clubbing of the fingers.
- Spirometry results that are normal or show an impaired restrictive pattern (sometimes obstructive).
Initial assessment should include a detailed history, clinical examination, and blood tests to exclude alternative diagnoses such as environmental/occupational lung diseases, connective tissue diseases, and drug-induced lung disease.
Primary care should also arrange lung function testing (spirometry and gas transfer) and review chest X-ray results.
Referral for high-resolution CT of the thorax and specialist multidisciplinary team assessment is required for definitive diagnosis.
Diagnosis of IPF must be confirmed by a multidisciplinary team based on clinical features, lung function, radiological findings, and pathology if indicated.