
Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP)
Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP) is a lung disease characterized by progressive scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue, mainly affecting the spaces around the air sacs. This scarring thickens and stiffens the lungs, making it harder to breathe and for oxygen to pass into the blood. UIP is often associated with a condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), where the exact cause is unknown. Over time, symptoms worsen, leading to reduced lung function. The condition is typically diagnosed through imaging tests like high-resolution CT scans and confirmed with lung biopsies. Treatment focuses on slowing disease progression and managing symptoms.