Pulmonology
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
The Interstitial Lung Disease Program (ILD) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian (CUIMC/NYP) is a multidisciplinary program that provides world-class care for patients with many types of interstitial lung disease (ILD), including:
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
- Nonspecific interstitial pneumonitis
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
- Drug-induced ILD
- Pneumoconiosis
- Pneumothorax
- Post-covid fibrosis
- ILD-related to connective tissue diseases such as lupus, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis
What Is Interstitial Lung Disease?
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term for a large group of chronic lung disorders that affect the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs.
The lining of the alveoli (the interstitium) is where oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream. Healthy alveoli expand and contract with ease. In patients with ILD, progressive inflammation or scarring (pulmonary fibrosis) make it hard for the alveoli to expand and absorb enough oxygen.
Blood Leukocyte Telomere Length and Genetic Testing
Blood leukocyte telomere length testing and genetic testing are relatively new tools for diagnosing and treating interstitial lung disease (ILD). Columbia’s clinic is one of the first to implement these tests as part of standard ILD care.
Telomeres are repeated DNA sequences located at the ends of chromosomes. They help maintain the integrity of chromosomal ends during cell division and they shorten with age. People with short telomeres are more susceptible to fibrotic ILD. Telomere length testing can help determine whether you have this risk, which can be genetically inherited.
Telomere length can also impact decisions about the best medication to treat your ILD. Our clinic has an integrated genetic counselor who can initiate genetic testing, if indicated. These tests can only be drawn in the ILD clinic due to the unique processing and counseling required.
Make an Appointment
Our experienced team is here to help you learn more about our program, to schedule an appointment, or to help with a referral. 212-305-8203
For more information, please visit their website here.
Cystic Fibrosis Genetics
The ColumbiaDoctors genetics program provides genetic counseling for families of cystic fibrosis patients, and also coordinates follow up testing for families of infants identified through New York State Newborn Screening Program. We offer counseling in collaboration with physicians in ColumbiaDoctors pulmonologists. Our geneticists partner with the Columbia University Medical Center Cystic Fibrosis Center in following up with babies suspected to have cystic fibrosis.
What is cystic fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that is characterized by thick, sticky mucus caused by the abnormal transport of salt within the body. Mucus plays an important role in our bodies by lubricating and protecting the lining of the organs.
In cystic fibrosis, the abnormal mucus causes blockages in organs such as the lungs and digestive tract which can lead to a variety of symptoms. The lung disease can be life-threatening and is the main cause of shortened life span.
Find out more about the Cystic Fibrosis Genetics program by visiting their website here.