Functional testing for interstitial lung disease in 2026

This review synthesizes the role of functional testing in the care of interstitial lung disease (ILD), evaluating the clinical utility of current approaches and discussing innovative strategies that may enhance patient monitoring and management.

The 6-min walk test (6MWT) remains the most studied and comprehensive assessment capturing functional and prognostic information, as well as outcomes related to interventions and treatments, in people with ILD. Step tests and sit-to-stand tests offer space-efficient alternatives with clinically relevant functional and prognostic insights. Current approaches are limited by accessibility and the ability to reflect patients' real-world performance. Advances in digital health and remote monitoring offer new opportunities. Physical activity trackers are widely available with step count and physical activity levels being associated with mortality, and are increasing used to evaluate effectiveness of pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions. Smart home technologies is an emerging approach with potential for monitoring functional status, although evidence is limited.

Functional performance in people with ILD can be assessed using a range of approaches. With further research, remote functional testing, physical activity monitoring, and smart home technologies are poised to optimize the assessment of functional status in people with ILD.