UCLH is a recognised specialist centre for the diagnosis and management of Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs).

ILD is a term used to describe a large group of conditions that affect the lung tissue with varying degrees of inflammation and or scarring, which interfere with the normal function of the lungs. Whilst some ILD presents acutely, they are generally considered chronic conditions, and we recognise that achieving an accurate and timely diagnosis is essential to ensure patients receive the most appropriate treatment and support.

Our ILD service has grown significantly in recent years, expanding by more than 50% and now assessing over 500 new patients each year. This high patient volume reflects the demand for specialist expertise and allows our team to develop extensive experience in diagnosing and managing both common and rare interstitial lung diseases.

A key strength of our service is our highly collaborative multidisciplinary approach. We hold regular specialist ILD multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings that bring together respiratory physicians, rheumatologists, and specialist thoracic radiologists from our institution and across the region to review complex cases and agree on individualised diagnostic and treatment plans.

As a specialist centre with strong academic and research links, we can offer patients:

  • Advanced diagnostic testing, including minimally invasive cryoscopic lung biopsy techniques and novel imaging
  • Genetic testing for eligible individuals in line with national testing criteria
  • Access to antifibrotic therapies and a variety of immunomodulatory agents given in the day case infusion clinic
  • Close collaboration with rheumatology colleagues (including a joint clinic)
  • Early review through the Papworth outreach lung transplant clinic held at UCLH
  • Opportunities to participate in national and international clinical research studies
  • We have links with other ILD centres, nationally and internationally and a presence in the ILD community, which facilitates growth, development and positive peer review

Our service is supported by dedicated clinical nurse specialists and physiotherapists with expertise in managing breathlessness and cough, who provide expert guidance, education and ongoing support for patients and their families. We work closely with community services and palliative care teams to ensure coordinated, holistic care throughout the patient journey.

Patient voice is central to how we deliver and develop our service. We host a bi-monthly ILD patient support group, providing education, peer support and an opportunity for patients and carers to share their experiences and contribute to service improvement.

Through specialist expertise, multidisciplinary collaboration and a commitment to patient-centred care, our ILD service continues to evolve as a leading centre for ILD diagnosis, treatment and research.

Referral

Referrals, for review in clinic or the ILD MDT, should be sent to uclh.ildreferrals2@nhs.net

Please provide full demographics, name, NHS number and DOB as well as relevant clinical details, lung function and dates and locations of imaging. 

For existing patients the following contact details can be used:

 

  • Diagnosis of all interstitial lung diseases with a multidisciplinary approach.
  • Bronchoscopy with lavage, EBUS and cryoscopic biopsy to aid diagnosis.
  • Surgical lung biopsy if required
  • Assessment for oxygen (either at night or ambulatory)
  • Shared care of patients with rheumatology colleagues, where indicated
  • Referral for transplantation if appropriate
  • Ongoing participation in national and international trials for patients with ILD who wish to partake in such studies.

Medical specialties

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