ABSTRACT
Despite our detailed knowledge of the various causes of diffuse parenchymal lung
diseases (DPLD), diagnosis and classification of the disease in an individual patient
remain a challenge in clinical practice (Table 1) (1-3). There are several likely
reasons. First, DPLD is rare, and many providers feel uncomfortable with and
inexperienced in their diagnostic approach. Second, accurate diagnosis requires
knowledge beyond the field of medicine; expertise in radiology and pathology is
essential. This mandates close collaboration with colleagues, which adds clinical
and logistical complexity (4,5). Third, some providers continue to have a nihilistic
approach to DPLD, believing that a specific diagnosis is of limited importance
since prognosis and treatment response are thought to be universally poor.
