Diagnostic clues in the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis of children
Rigante, D.; Stabile, A.
Minerva Pediatrica 56(2): 157-160
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-4946 PMID: 15249899 Document Number: 574425
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in children is a heterogeneous group of progressive disorders characterized by variable extents of inflammation and interstitial deposition of collagen fibers with numerous putative triggers. Children affected with this condition show breathlessness, non-productive cough and bibasilar/inspiratory dry rales. Diagnosis can be obtained by the exclusion of all known causes of fibrosing alveolitis such as neoplasms, toxic treatments, collagen vascular diseases, occupational exposure or granulomatous diseases.