My dr says i have acute interstitial lung disease and wants to do a pulmonary function test and high resolution ct scan. what does all of this mean?

Not simple pneumonia: For a simple pneumonia, the initial x-rays can provide classical features and the doc can send you on your way with simple treatment. Interstitial lung disease requires a more involved evaluation because the potential causes are quite diverse. Differentiating a simple transient from a long term issue is important to identify a cause and course of treatment.

ILD: Ild refers to a group of lung diseases affecting the interstitium (the tissue and space around the air sacs of the lungs). It concerns alveolar epithelium, pulmonary capillary endothelium, basement membrane, perivascular and perilymphatic tissues. The term ild is used to distinguish these diseases from obstructive airways diseases such as emphysema (COPD) and athma like conditions. Get DX and tx.

Workup and Mgt: An acute interstitial disease is often related to infection of the lung or a reaction to inhaled substances. I would recommend that since you are being treated for allergies, that you also include a pre and post bronchodilator spirometry. The HRCT will be helpful in identifying structural abnormalities of the lung. If you have crackles on examination, a workup for Hypersen. pneumonitis may be done