Korean J Intern Med.  2025 Mar;40(2):208-218. 10.3904/kjim.2024.335.

Current perspectives on interstitial lung abnormalities

• Oh JH
• Song JW

• KMID: 2567098
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjim.2024.335

Abstract

Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs) are early indicators of interstitial lung disease, often identified incidentally via computed tomography of the chest. This review explores the diagnostic criteria for ILAs as outlined by the Fleischner Society, highlights associated risk factors, examines their impact on patient outcomes, and discusses management strategies. The prevalence of ILAs varies significantly, ranging from 3% to 17% across populations. Key risk factors include advanced age, smoking status, and underlying genetic predispositions. Recent advancements in imaging analysis, particularly through automated quantitative systems, have enhanced the accuracy of ILA detection. Although often subtle in presentation, ILAs hold clinical significance due to their associations with impaired lung function, progressive fibrosis, and increased mortality. Therefore, monitoring and management plans should be individualized to the risk profile of patients. Further studies are needed to refine ILA diagnostic criteria, enhance our understanding of their clinical implications, and establish optimal timing for therapeutic interventions.

Keyword

Pulmonary fibrosis; Lung diseases; Interstitial; Disease progression; Mortality