Diagnostic workup for diffuse parenchymal lung disease: schematic flowchart, literature review, and pitfalls

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD) encompasses various lung disorders with known or unknown causes.
• Early diagnosis of DPLD is critical due to the potential for rapid progression to respiratory failure.
• Despite recent guidelines, practical challenges in evaluating suspected DPLD persist.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a practical diagnostic and differentiation approach for diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD).
• To provide a critical literature appraisal on DPLD diagnosis.
• To identify and highlight frequent pitfalls in the evaluation of DPLD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and critical appraisal of current evidence.
• Development of a practical diagnostic workup strategy for DPLD.
• Identification of common diagnostic challenges and pitfalls.

Main Results:

• A structured, practical approach to DPLD diagnosis is presented.
• Key diagnostic considerations and potential errors are outlined.
• The review emphasizes areas requiring further investigation.

Conclusions:

• The proposed practical workup aids in DPLD diagnosis and differentiation.
• Despite advancements, several issues in DPLD investigation require further research.
• Efficient evaluation of newly diagnosed DPLD patients remains an evolving area.