Characterising Patient Pathways Prior to the Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease

Caitlin C. Fermoyle; John Townend; Vidya Navaratnam; N. Goh; Francesca Gonnelli; Neva Eleangovan; Ursie Smith; Heath Heatley; Victoria Carter; David Price; RB Hubbard; Tamera J. Corte

doi:10.1002/resp.70230

March 11, 2026RespirologyOpen Access

Characterising Patient Pathways Prior to the Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease

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Key Points

To characterize the patient pathways that lead to the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease.
Examined gradual onset of symptoms over a period of 10 years.
Identified patterns of referrals to various specialities and common misdiagnoses.
Evaluated the role of primary care practitioners in the diagnostic process.
Delays in ILD diagnosis are common due to non-specific symptoms.
Misdiagnoses and referrals to other specialities contribute to prolonged diagnosis times.
Enhancing awareness of ILD can facilitate earlier diagnosis and access to treatments.

Implication

Analysis shows that increased awareness among primary care practitioners may improve ILD diagnosis and shorten delays.

Abstract

Gradual onset of non-specific symptoms over 10 years, coupled with referrals to other specialities and misdiagnoses, delays ILD diagnosis. Improving awareness of ILD among primary care practitioners may shorten the time to diagnosis and expedite access to treatments.

Discussion

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Cite This Study

Fermoyle et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69b4b9eb18185d8a398021d8 https://doi.org/10.1002/resp.70230

View Full Paper

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Characterising Patient Pathways Prior to the Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease

Key Points

Implication

Abstract

Discussion

Cite This Study

Characterising Patient Pathways Prior to the Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease

Key Points

Implication

Abstract

Discussion

Cite This Study

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