What Is Fibrosing Alveolitis?
Fibrosing alveolitis, also known as pulmonary fibrosis, is a chronic lung disease which falls into a larger family of diseases known as interstitial lung conditions, referring to the fact that they involve the interstitial space of the lungs. This condition can be very dangerous for a patient, and it requires monitoring and appropriate treatment. In some cases, the condition may progress to the point where a lung transplant is required. This condition occurs when the lungs are repeatedly inflamed and irritated, triggering the formation of fibrous scar tissue in between the alveoli in the lungs. As the scarring progresses, the patient usually experiences difficulty breathing, including shortness of breath even when no strenuous activity is occurring. Many patients also develop a dry, unproductive cough.