Usual Interstitial Pneumonia

Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP) is a lung condition characterized by progressive scarring of the lung tissue, primarily affecting the smallest air sacs (alveoli). This scarring causes stiffening of the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and reducing oxygen transfer to the blood. UIP is commonly associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, meaning its cause is often unknown. Over time, symptoms worsen, leading to breathlessness and a persistent dry cough. The scarring seen in UIP is typically seen in specific patterns on lung scans and biopsies, helping doctors distinguish it from other lung diseases.