Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis(IPF)

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by the scarring (fibrosis) and stiffening of lung tissue over time. The term "idiopathic" indicates that the cause of IPF is unknown, making it distinct from other forms of pulmonary fibrosis that can be linked to specific exposures or conditions. IPF typically affects older adults and manifests with symptoms such as persistent and worsening shortness of breath, a dry and persistent cough, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. The disease progresses gradually, leading to increasingly severe respiratory impairment and complications such as respiratory failure.