Scarring and thickening of lung tissue, usually as a result of previous lung inflammation. It may be confined to an area of the lung affected by a condition such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, or it may be widespread through the lungs (see fibrosing alveolitis). Shortness of breath is a common symptom. Diagnosis is confirmed by chest X-ray. Treatment depends on the cause, but in most cases the fibrosis is irreversible and treatment aims to prevent the condition from progressing.
Pulmonary fibrosis |
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