Diffuse Interstitial Fibrosis of the Lung

Abstract

Three examples of arbitrarily defined clinical patterns of diffuse interstitial fibrosis of the lung are presented from a series of 10 pathologically established cases. These cases, as well as 12 others diagnosed on presumptive clinical evidence, are discussed with respect to etiologic concepts. The problems of clinical diagnosis and the importance of differential diagnosis are outlined. Emphasis is placed on clinical criteria for diagnosis, particularly the unusual character of the rales.