End-Stage Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Presumably Associated with Biomass Smoke Exposure: A Case Report from Kenya

Abstract: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most serious form of interstitial lung disease and is characterized by chronic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia and the pathognomonic usual interstitial pattern (UIP) on a high-resolution CT (HRCT) scan of the lungs, as well as lung histology. Risk factors associated with IPF include cigarette smoking, environmental exposures to biomass fuel smoke, organic dust, and other air pollutants. IPF is invariably progressive and fatal, with a mean survival of 2-5 years after diagnosis and a mortality rate of up to 85% following an acute exacerbation. Whereas anti-fibrotic agents like nintedanib and pirfenidone may slow down the decline of pulmonary function even in advanced disease, they are not readily affordable for a typical rural Kenyan patient. In this study, we report on the diagnostic process of IPF in a rural Kenyan woman and highlight the challenges of managing end-stage IPF. 

Keywords: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, IPF, usual interstitial pattern, Velcro-type crackles, biomass fuel, cor pulmonale, high resolution chest CT scan, Kenya.

Title: End-Stage Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Presumably Associated with Biomass Smoke Exposure: A Case Report from Kenya

Author: Vonwicks C. Onyango

International Journal of Novel Research in Healthcare and Nursing

ISSN 2394-7330

Vol. 11, Issue 2, May 2024 - August 2024

Page No: 61-66

Novelty Journals

Website: www.noveltyjournals.com

Published Date: 21-May-2024

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11235214

Paper Download Link (Source)

https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/End-Stage%20Idiopathic%20Pulmonary%20Fibrosis-21052024-5.pdf