Presents with chronic dyspnea on exertion, maybe a slight cough. Minimal physical findings may include fine rales at posterior & lateral bases, but usually lungs are clear.
Chest X-ray may note “reticular” or “nodular” “opacities,” or “honeycombing,” usually bilaterally, but perhaps only in certain zones of each lung.
PFTs are key, reveal restrictive abnormalities and a decreased DLCO. Image of choice is a high-resolution chest CT. Lots of possible etiologies, usually requiring biopsy to distinguish.
See postings Chronic Dyspnea – 1 and Chronic Dyspnea – 2 (re: PFTs).
DiagnosisDude 