Childhood interstitial lung disease

The estimated prevalence of childhood interstitial lung disease (approximately 1.5 cases per million) is lower than in adults. However, with advances in classification and identification, the estimated prevalence of childhood interstitial lung disease may increase.

Common clinical features of childhood interstitial lung disease include cough, tachypnoea, crackles and hypoxaemia. Diffuse infiltrates on chest X-ray are commonly seen. If interstitial lung disease is suspected, refer to a paediatric respiratory specialist.

As in adult interstitial lung disease, some forms of interstitial lung disease in children respond to corticosteroids. The response to therapy and overall prognosis is better than in most adult forms of interstitial lung disease. The majority of children recover and most can lead normal lives. However, some subgroups, particularly those with genetic abnormalities of surfactant function, have poor prognoses.

The Lung Foundation Australia website publishes information and fact sheets for parents and carers of children diagnosed with childhood interstitial lung disease.