Our Summary

This research is about a disease called systemic sclerosis interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD), a condition that affects the lungs. Previous studies on this disease have not extensively explored the role of different subtypes of the disease. This is partly because treatment options were limited and taking a biopsy (sample) from the lung for testing was risky. However, with new drugs for treatment and less risky ways to get a biopsy, this study aims to understand the role of lung biopsies in diagnosing and treating SSc-ILD.

The researchers looked at studies from three databases up until June 2023. The focus was on studies that used the lung biopsy in SSc-ILD diagnosis and prognosis. They found 14 studies involving 364 patients with SSc-ILD. The results showed a high number of women and an age range of 42 to 64 years. The researchers also found that the lung biopsies were not always consistent with the results from a type of lung scan (HRCT).

The study concluded that there is a lack of and inconsistency in studies that report the use of lung biopsies in SSc-ILD. They also highlighted the need for more research to understand if lung biopsies can help improve prediction of the disease’s course and guide treatment choices.

FAQs

  1. What is the focus of this research on systemic sclerosis interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD)?
  2. How many studies and patients were involved in this research on SSc-ILD?
  3. Why is there a need for more research regarding the use of lung biopsies in diagnosing and treating SSc-ILD?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient about lung biopsy:

  • A lung biopsy may be necessary to accurately diagnose and determine the severity of lung conditions such as SSc-ILD.
  • Before the procedure, it is important to discuss any medications you are taking, allergies, and medical conditions with your healthcare provider.
  • After the biopsy, it is common to experience some pain or discomfort, but this can be managed with pain medication.
  • It is important to follow your doctor’s post-procedure instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
  • The results of the biopsy can provide valuable information for developing a treatment plan specific to your condition.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended a lung biopsy include those with:

  1. Suspected lung cancer: A lung biopsy may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis of lung cancer and determine the type and stage of the cancer.

  2. Interstitial lung disease: Lung biopsies may be recommended for patients with interstitial lung diseases such as systemic sclerosis interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) to help diagnose the condition and guide treatment.

  3. Pulmonary fibrosis: Patients with pulmonary fibrosis may undergo a lung biopsy to determine the underlying cause of the condition and guide treatment decisions.

  4. Suspected infections: A lung biopsy may be recommended for patients with suspected lung infections that are difficult to diagnose through other methods.

  5. Lung nodules or masses: Patients with lung nodules or masses may undergo a lung biopsy to determine if the growth is cancerous or benign.

  6. Diffuse lung diseases: Patients with diffuse lung diseases such as sarcoidosis or hypersensitivity pneumonitis may undergo a lung biopsy to help diagnose the condition and guide treatment.

Overall, the decision to recommend a lung biopsy will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms, medical history, and the suspected underlying cause of their lung disease.

Timeline

Before a lung biopsy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of SSc-ILD such as shortness of breath, cough, and fatigue.
  2. Patient undergoes physical examination and lung function tests to assess lung health.
  3. Imaging tests like high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) are performed to visualize lung abnormalities.
  4. Doctor recommends a lung biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for further testing.

After a lung biopsy:

  1. Patient undergoes the biopsy procedure, which may be done through bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy.
  2. Tissue sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis to confirm the presence of SSc-ILD and assess disease severity.
  3. Results from the biopsy help guide treatment decisions, including medication management and monitoring of disease progression.
  4. Patient may experience some discomfort or side effects from the biopsy, but these are usually temporary.
  5. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s lung health and response to treatment based on biopsy results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of a lung biopsy in diagnosing SSc-ILD?
  2. How is a lung biopsy performed and what are the risks associated with it?
  3. What information can a lung biopsy provide that other tests, such as HRCT scans, cannot?
  4. How will the results of the lung biopsy impact my treatment plan for SSc-ILD?
  5. Are there different types of lung biopsies that can be done for SSc-ILD, and if so, which one is most appropriate for my case?
  6. How long will it take to get the results from a lung biopsy and what will the follow-up process look like?
  7. What are the potential complications or side effects of having a lung biopsy done?
  8. Will I need to make any changes to my medications or lifestyle after having a lung biopsy?
  9. Are there any alternative tests or procedures that can provide similar information to a lung biopsy?
  10. How often might I need to have a lung biopsy done in the future to monitor my SSc-ILD?

Reference

Authors: Damiani A, Orlandi M, Bruni C, Bandini G, Lepri G, Scaletti C, Ravaglia C, Frassanito F, Guiducci S, Moggi-Pignone A, Matucci-Cerinic M, Poletti V, Tofani L, Colby TV, Randone SB, Tomassetti S. Journal: Respir Res. 2024 Mar 23;25(1):138. doi: 10.1186/s12931-024-02725-1. PMID: 38521926