Longitudinal assessment of interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features is encouraged

We appreciate the interests expressed by Alberto Scir é et al. in our recent publication describing the phenotypic characteristics and natural history of a cohort of patients that fulfill classification criteria for interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (IPAF) [1]. In their letter they suggest that the designation of IPAF may be a transient condition and that some patients that initially are classified as IPAF will evolve into a characterizable connective tissue disease (CTD). We agree and believe this should highlight the need for longitudinal surveillance for evolution to characterizable forms of CTD.
Source: Respiratory Medicine - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research