Abstract

Diagnosis
Diagnose idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis only with the consensus of the multidisciplinary team (listed in table 1), based on: the clinical features, lung function and radiological findings (see recommendation 1.2.1); pathology when indicated (see recommendation 1.2.4);
Table 1 Minimum composition of multidisciplinary team involved in diagnosing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Stage of diagnostic care pathway
Multidisciplinary team composition (all healthcare professionals should have expertise in interstitial lung disease)
After clinical evaluation, baseline lung function and CT
Consultant respiratory physician
Consultant radiologist
Interstitial lung disease specialist nurse
Multidisciplinary team coordinator
When considering performing bronchoalveolar lavage, and/or transbronchial biopsy or surgical lung biopsy
Only some patients will have bronchoalveolar lavage or transbronchial biopsy but they may be being considered for surgical lung biopsy
Consultant respiratory physician
Consultant radiologist
Consultant histopathologist
Thoracic surgeon as appropriate
Interstitial lung disease specialist nurse
Multidisciplinary team coordinator
When considering results of bronchoalveolar lavage, transbronchial biopsy or surgical lung biopsy
Consultant respiratory physician
Consultant radiologist
Consultant histopathologist
Interstitial lung disease specialist nurse
Multidisciplinary team coordinator

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