Table 1 Criteria suggested for defining an acute exacerbation of IPF
From: Aberrant innate immune sensing leads to the rapid progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Previous or concurrent diagnosis of IPF |
Unexplained worsening or development of dyspnea within 30 days |
HRCT with new bilateral ground-glass abnormality and/or consolidation superimposed on a background reticular or honeycomb pattern consistent with UIP |
No evidence of pulmonary infection by endotracheal aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage |
Exclusion of alternative causes, including the following: |
   Left heart failure |
   Pulmonary embolism |
   Identifiable cause of acute lung injury |