**Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: IPF**

Associate Professor Funda Coşkun, Member of the TÜSAD Board of Directors, noted that the most distinctive signs of IPF (Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis), known among the public as "lung fibrosis," are "shortness of breath" and "persistent dry cough," emphasizing that these symptoms should not be overlooked. Coşkun explained that IPF, which is not widely known in society, currently has no definitive cure, but there are medications that extend patients' life expectancy and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance in the treatment of all diseases. However, some diseases are not sufficiently known, so their symptoms are overlooked. One of these diseases is IPF, or Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. The prevalence of this disease in Turkey is 5 per 100,000. It can be compared with COPD or asthma diseases. For this reason, raising awareness on this issue is of great importance. Associate Professor Funda Coşkun, Member of the TÜSAD (Turkish Respiratory Research Association) Board of Directors, drew attention to the fact that symptoms of IPF, known among the public as "lung fibrosis," can be overlooked because it is a relatively rare disease, while noting that positive developments are observed when treatment begins early. Coşkun, who is also Head of the TÜSAD Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Disease and Pulmonary Vascular Disease Working Group, highlighted the following points in a statement made during the 14-20 September World Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Week: "Although IPF has no specific symptom, most patients present with persistent dry cough and progressive shortness of breath, especially during exercise. Additionally, associations are observed with certain skin and joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus that can predispose patients to this condition." Noting that IPF causes lung injury and is unfortunately an incurable condition, Coşkun provided the following information: "It reduces respiratory efficiency and can progressively worsen over time. Since the scar tissue that forms cannot be repaired by the body or any medication, there is currently no definitive cure. For this reason, thanks to recently developed medications, in this disease where there was previously no treatment possibility, we can now slow the rate of scar tissue formation, control symptoms, and extend life expectancy.

SMOKING MEN IN RISK GROUP

Noting that the prevalence is higher, particularly in elderly male patients with a history of smoking, Coşkun continued: "When there are unexplained, progressively increasing shortness of breath and cough complaints that are prolonged, a chest disease specialist should definitely be consulted. Diagnosis requires tests such as high-resolution computed tomography of the lungs, diffusion testing, blood tests, and autoantibodies. When necessary, lung biopsy can be performed to confirm the diagnosis. In diagnosed patients, when no underlying cause is identified, the disease is classified as idiopathic, or pulmonary fibrosis of unknown cause." Noting that while IPF has no definitive cure, significant advances have been made in treatment, Coşkun stated: "In recent years, with newly developed medications, patients' life expectancy has been extended, the frequency and severity of acute episodes have decreased, and hospitalizations of our patients have declined. To access these treatments, you must definitely consult your physician."

TREATMENT PROCESS MUST NOT BE INTERRUPTED

Meanwhile, emphasizing the importance of IPF patients continuing their treatment processes without interruption during the COVID-19 pandemic, Coşkun made the following reminders: "There is currently no study on coronavirus risk specific to IPF patients. For this reason, we must reiterate that the strict precautions taken by those with other chronic diseases also apply to this patient group. IPF patients must not interrupt their treatment processes during this period and must continue regular medication use. Like everyone else, mask wearing, social distancing, and hygiene rules are of great importance for IPF patients during this period."

WHAT IS IPF DISEASE?

This disease, which is generally seen in people over 60 years of age and more frequently in men, has a prevalence of 5 per 100,000 in Turkey. IPF may not present symptoms in its early stages. Exertional shortness of breath and dry cough are the most common complaints. Shortness of breath typically develops insidiously and progresses. Cough is usually dry in nature and persistent, and cough suppressant medications are ineffective. Patients think these complaints develop due to aging or smoking. Additionally, 30 percent of patients also show clubbing of the fingertips. Besides these complaints, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, and weight loss are among the other symptoms of the disease. IPF symptoms can be confused with diseases such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Respiratory function tests, six-minute walk test, and diffusion testing are also used to monitor disease progression. Through early diagnosis, treatment can be started before significant loss of lung function occurs."