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StatPearls, LLC

  • Biopsy
  • Carbon Monoxide
  • Dyspnea
  • Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
  • Vital Capacity

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disorder characterized by scarring of the lungs from an unknown cause. The condition has a poor long-term prognosis. Classic features of IPF include the gradual onset of shortness of breath, progressive dyspnea, and a dry, nonproductive cough. Pulmonary function tests usually reveal restrictive lung function impairment, decreased functional vital capacity, and diminished carbon monoxide diffusing capacity. Early diagnosis is pivotal for effective management, given the disease’s tendency to progress rapidly in advanced stages. Diagnosis can often be established without biopsy through a comprehensive assessment of clinical history, imaging results, and exclusion of alternative conditions. However, a lung biopsy may be required in cases where diagnostic uncertainty persists. Imaging techniques, particularly computed tomography scans, frequently display a distinctive pattern of fibrosis, typically observed at the periphery of both lungs and more prominently concentrated at the bases, aiding in the diagnosis of IPF. In cases of diagnostic uncertainty, a lung biopsy can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment strategies include supportive measures, oxygen supplementation as required, antifibrotic medications, and, in severe cases, lung transplantation, which stands as the sole curative option. This activity comprehensively reviews the etiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, evaluation, and management of IPF in adults, highlighting the role of the interprofessional healthcare team in its evaluation, diagnosis, and management.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

IPCE CreditsUp to 2 creditsAAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 2 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 2 creditsNursingUp to 2 creditsPharmacyUp to 2 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 2 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 2 pointsABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 2 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 2 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 2 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 2 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 2 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 9 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 2 credits
  • MOC · Up to 2 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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