Evaluation of comorbidities in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients

Background and aim Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are a long-term, progressively worsening lung condition with an unclear cause. It has been linked to various comorbidities, such as pulmonary hypertension (HTN), emphysema, lung cancer, heart disease, and acid reflux. We aimed to determine whether the number of comorbidities, and which specific comorbidities, when considered together, impact survival in IPF. Patients and methods This study was conducted in Chest Department at Al-Azhar University Hospital and the Chest Hospital in El-Minia. The study involved 100 patients diagnosed with IPF, who were categorized into two groups: group A, consisting of 35 patients with IPF but no comorbidities, and group B, comprising 65 patients with IPF along with associated comorbid conditions. Laboratory investigations included arterial blood gases. Radiological investigations included chest radiography and high-resolution computed tomography. Pulmonary function tests were done for every patient. Results Most patients with IPF exhibit various comorbidities, and a significant number experience mortality linked to these associated conditions. The most common comorbidities were pulmonary HTN (66%), bronchiectasis (66%), HTN (66%), diabetes (55%), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (45%). The incidence of comorbidities among patients with IPF was significantly correlated with residence, occupation, marital status, smoking, and familial interstitial lung disease. Conclusion Growing evidence suggests that the early detection and management of comorbidities play a crucial role alongside the treatment of IPF. Managing comorbidities can contribute to improving quality of life.