Combined Pulmonary Fibrosis and Emphysema - A Case Series

Abstract

Background: Idiopathic interstitial fibrosis and pulmonary emphysema are commonly associated, showing bilateral upper zone emphysema and bilateral fibrosis of lower lung fields. It’s a progressive disease characterized by restrictive lung function and decrease gaseous exchange. Objective: To differentiate this disease entity early from other fibrotic diseases. To start the treatment at early stage. Method: A Case series of 9 patients diagnosed with CPFE disease at SBKS MIRC included in the study. Results: Out of total 9 patients 8 were males and 1 female. Mean age was found to be between 40 to 76 years. Disease found to be more prevalent in smokers. Mean Spo2 on examination was found to be 88%. Conclusion: CPFE is a distinctive syndrome which should be diagnosed at early stage preventing morbidity and early mortality along with providing better quality of life to patients . There is considerable prevalence of CPFE in smokers with increasing age too, which is always misdiagnosed, can lead to in fact worsening of patient`s condition.