What question did this study set out to answer?

To summarize current definitions, epidemiology, and management strategies for interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs).

February 8, 2026Open Access

Current diagnosis, epidemiology, and management of interstitial lung abnormalities

TMTeng Moua MBMisbah BaqirMayo Clinic VTVasilios Tzilas

Key Points

To summarize current definitions, epidemiology, and management strategies for interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs).
Review of existing literature on interstitial lung abnormalities.
Analysis of ILA prevalence and risk factors.
Discussion of management strategies for optimizing outcomes in ILD.
ILAs are commonly found in older ever-smokers.
Their prevalence is increasing due to an aging population and awareness.
Understanding risk factors is crucial for managing potential ILD outcomes.

Abstract

Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILAs) are incidental nondependent radiologic findings that may portend early or future interstitial lung disease (ILD), but do not meet specific criteria at the time of presentation. They are subclinical by definition and found more commonly in older ever-smokers undergoing computed tomography (CT) imaging for other indications, including cardiac or lung cancer screening programs. As ILA prevalence increases, driven by an aging population and heightened awareness in younger patients, understanding risk factors for their development and progression has gained recent interest, particularly for optimizing subsequent ILD outcomes. This narrative review summarizes current ILA definitions, epidemiology, risk stratification, and management, while highlighting current challenges and knowledge gaps.

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