Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

The unknown aetiology of irreversible fibrotic scarring of lung tissues in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) has resulted in the lack of a gold standard for disease diagnosis. Presently, medical imaging like HRCT scanning remains the best choice for disease diagnosis. However, recently several molecular, metabolic, and microbiome signatures associated with IPF have been identified using leading edge omics approaches. These probable biomarker candidates can be explored for improved, non-invasive disease diagnosis. The current treatment regime of IPF primarily relies on anti-fibrotic agents which slows down progression of fibrosis, but fails to cure the disease completely. Different biologics and small molecule modulators are being investigated clinically for their safety and efficacy in IPF patients. However, several research areas need to be explored to bridge knowledge gaps and find solution to unanswered questions related to IPF for better diagnosis and management of the disease.