Latest news with #ILD
Medscape
2 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
ILD Associated With Increased Risk for Lung Cancer
TOPLINE: Individuals with interstitial lung disease (ILD) had more than a 13-fold higher incidence rate of lung cancer than those without ILD. The association persisted after adjustment for confounders, was consistent across all histological subtypes, and remained elevated even 10 years after ILD diagnosis. METHODOLOGY: ILD is a progressive chronic lung disease previously linked to a suspected incidence of lung cancer. However, no study has comprehensively analyzed the risk for lung cancer in patients with ILD after controlling for genetic factors. This cohort study included 5,425,976 individuals (51.2% men) from the Swedish Total Population Register; of these, 14,624 had ILD (58.1% men; 65.9% aged > 40 years). The researchers conducted a sibling‐controlled analysis to account for genetic and early environmental factors. This involved 9157 individuals with ILD and at least one full sibling and 21,725 unaffected full siblings. The primary outcome was lung cancer diagnosis. The follow-up spanned from 1987 to 2016. TAKEAWAY: The incidence rate of lung cancer was significantly higher among patients with vs without ILD (355.4 vs 26.2 per 100,000 person-years). After adjusting for confounders, the risk for lung cancer remained higher among individuals with ILD (hazard ratio [HR], 2.16). The sibling-controlled analysis also revealed a higher risk for lung cancer (HR, 2.91). When stratified by histological subtypes, an elevated risk for lung cancer was observed for adenocarcinoma (HR, 1.60), squamous cell carcinoma (HR, 2.56), and small cell carcinoma (HR, 3.29). Including the first 3 years of follow-up, ILD was associated with a higher risk for lung cancer, and this increased risk persisted even 10 years post-diagnosis (HR, 2.08). IN PRACTICE: 'Our findings indicate that ILD is associated with an elevated risk of lung cancer, even after adjusting for familial factors' and 'an increased risk of various histological subtypes of lung cancer,' the authors wrote. 'These findings suggest that the presence of ILD should be incorporated into lung cancer risk assessment models,' they added. SOURCE: This study, led by Hui Xu, MD, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden, was published online in JAMA Network Open. LIMITATIONS: The study lacked detailed smoking history and relied on diagnoses of smoking-related diseases as proxies, which may have led to residual confounding. The number of lung cancer cases in some ILD subtypes was too small for detailed subtype-specific analyses. Additionally, the study could not assess tumor location, limiting anatomical correlation between ILD and lung cancer. DISCLOSURES: This study was supported by a grant from the Swedish Cancer Society. The authors reported having no conflicts of interest. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Medscape
26-06-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Nerandomilast May Slow Down Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis
TOPLINE: In a phase 3 study, nerandomilast administered at 18 mg or 9 mg twice daily slowed the progression of pulmonary fibrosis in adults with progressive pulmonary fibrosis. METHODOLOGY: In a previous study, nerandomilast, a preferential inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4B, was found to slow the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The present phase 3, randomized trial conducted at multiple sites across 44 countries investigated the efficacy and safety of nerandomilast in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) other than idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The study enrolled 1176 patients (mean age, 66.4 years; mean forced vital capacity [FVC], 70.1% of the predicted value) who were randomly assigned to receive either 18 mg or 9 mg nerandomilast or placebo twice daily. Patients were stratified on the basis of background nintedanib therapy and fibrotic patterns observed on high-resolution CT. The mean exposure duration was approximately 14.5 months in each group. The primary endpoint was the absolute change from baseline in FVC at week 52, and key secondary endpoints were time to first acute exacerbation of ILD, respiratory-related hospitalization, or death. TAKEAWAY: Nerandomilast significantly reduced the decline in FVC compared with placebo, with adjusted differences of 67.2 mL for the 18 mg dose and 81.1 mL for the 9 mg dose (P < .001 for both). This reduction in lung function decline was sustained regardless of background therapy. The study could not confirm the less frequent occurrence of a first acute exacerbation of ILD, respiratory-related hospitalization, or death in the nerandomilast groups compared with the placebo group. Deaths occurred in a lower proportion of patients receiving nerandomilast at 18 mg (hazard ratio [HR], 0.48; 95% CI, 0.30-0.79), and 9 mg (HR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.38-0.95) doses than in those receiving placebo. Diarrhea was the most frequently occurring adverse event, reported in 36.6%, 29.5%, and 24.7% patients in the 18 mg nerandomilast, 9 mg nerandomilast, and placebo groups, respectively. Adverse events leading to regimen interruption or permanent discontinuation occurred at similar rates across the groups. IN PRACTICE: 'The FIBRONEER-ILD trial showed that nerandomilast at a dose of 18 mg twice daily or 9 mg twice daily slowed the progression of pulmonary fibrosis in patients with progressive pulmonary fibrosis,' the authors wrote. 'The current clinical trials represent a meaningful advancement in the treatment landscape for persons living with IPF [idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis] and progressive ILD other than IPF,' the author of an associated editorial wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Toby M. Maher, MD, Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. It was published online on May 19, 2025, in The New England Journal of Medicine. LIMITATIONS: The trial was not powered to evaluate nerandomilast in specific subgroups, including patients grouped by ILD diagnosis. Additionally, patients taking certain medications, particularly mycophenolate, that are commonly used in treating autoimmune diseases were excluded from the trial. DISCLOSURES: This study was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim. Nine authors declared being employees of Boehringer Ingelheim, while few declared serving as consultants. Some other authors reported having other financial ties with various pharmaceutical companies. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Business Upturn
17-06-2025
- Health
- Business Upturn
Pulmonologists and Rheumatologists Struggle to Diagnose and Manage CTD-ILD, According to New Research from Spherix Global Insights
EXTON, PA, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — According to Spherix Global Insights' newly published Special Topix™: Interstitial Lung Disease in Rheumatology (US) report, both rheumatologists and pulmonologists report significant challenges in diagnosing and managing connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD), with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and myositis (IIM) cited as the most difficult subtypes to treat. The research, based on responses from 138 US specialists (n=68 rheumatologists and 70 pulmonologists), highlights persistent unmet needs, diagnostic ambiguity, and a call for more robust and collaborative management strategies. The findings reflect that undiagnosed and misdiagnosed patients make up a substantial portion of the CTD-ILD population, with nearly one-third of rheumatologists and over half of pulmonologists naming differential diagnosis as a key challenge. Specialists underscore a lack of specific biomarkers, logistical biopsy issues, and overlapping symptoms as primary obstacles. 'The most definitive test (biopsy) is invasive. It is difficult to find the clinicians who are willing to do it in a timely manner, and to convince the patient it needs to be done.' – Rheumatologist 'Ensuring the correct diagnosis to avoid misdiagnosing the type of ILD or source of ILD. I usually employ the assistance of a rheumatologist.' – Pulmonologist 'Often it would be difficult to get patients biopsied for logistical reasons, and often the pathology report would not be precise enough.' – Pulmonologist Even once diagnosed, CTD-ILD patients face a treatment landscape with few options to slow or halt disease progression. When asked about the most difficult aspects of management, specialists consistently pointed to a lack of effective and targeted therapies, with SSc-ILD and myositis-ILD receiving the highest unmet need scores. For SSc-ILD specifically, not only is it associated with the most aggressive progression and worst long-term outcomes, but it also presents a uniquely complex therapeutic challenge. The clinical burden is especially pronounced in patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc), where the use of corticosteroids is often limited due to the heightened risk of scleroderma renal crisis. This leaves physicians with a narrow band of anti-fibrotic and immunosuppressive options, many of which are perceived as only modestly effective in controlling ILD progression, let alone reversing it. Even therapies with regulatory approval for SSc-ILD, such as Boehringer Ingelheim's OFEV (nintedanib), garner only measured enthusiasm from treating physicians. While rheumatologists acknowledge nintedanib's potential to slow functional decline, they note it does little to address the underlying autoimmune pathology. Similarly, mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab remain staples of clinical practice, yet their real-world performance is viewed as inconsistent and difficult to monitor. Across the board, satisfaction ratings for currently utilized agents fall short of expectations, reinforcing a treatment landscape still dominated by trial-and-error approaches. This disconnect between disease complexity and treatment efficacy is fueling demand for dual-acting agents, therapies that can address both systemic autoimmunity and pulmonary fibrosis. Nowhere is this demand more visible than in systemic lupus erythematosus-associated ILD (SLE-ILD), where rheumatologists express growing interest in GSK's Benlysta (belimumab). Though not currently approved for ILD, belimumab's immunologic mechanism and expanded label for lupus nephritis have raised hopes that similar benefit may extend to pulmonary manifestations. Across interviews and survey feedback, physicians articulate a desire for treatments that reduce systemic activity while simultaneously preventing fibrotic progression—without the need for an antifibrotic add-on with limited synergy. Looking ahead, specialists are cautiously optimistic about the pipeline. While interest in agents with antifibrotic and immunomodulatory properties is rising, physicians emphasize that what's most needed is not just another drug, but a paradigm shift—a treatment model that reflects the multifaceted nature of CTD-ILD. As one physician summarized, the goal is to 'treat the patient, not just the lungs.' In addition to tracking physician sentiment and practice patterns, the study includes target product profile evaluations for several pipeline therapies: Benlysta (GSK), BMS-986278 (Bristol Myers Squibb), Nerandomilast (Boehringer Ingelheim), and Treprostinil (United Therapeutics). These profiles offer manufacturers timely insights into clinical expectations, adoption potential, and differentiation opportunities in an increasingly complex ILD treatment landscape. Special Topix™ is an independent service that includes access to a report or series of reports based on current events or topics of interest in specialty markets covered by Spherix. About Spherix Global Insights Spherix is a leading independent market intelligence and advisory firm that delivers commercial value to the global life sciences industry, across the brand lifecycle. The seasoned team of Spherix experts provides an unbiased and holistic view of the landscape within rapidly evolving specialty markets, including dermatology, gastroenterology, rheumatology, nephrology, neurology, ophthalmology, and hematology. Spherix clients stay ahead of the curve with the perspective of the extensive Spherix Physician Community. As a trusted advisor and industry thought leader, Spherix's unparalleled market insights and advisory services empower clients to make better decisions and unlock opportunities for growth. To learn more about Spherix Global Insights, visit or connect through LinkedIn. For more details on Spherix's primary market research reports and interactive dashboard offerings, visit or register here: NOTICE: All company, brand or product names in this press release are trademarks of their respective holders. The findings and opinions expressed within are based on Spherix Global Insight's analysis and do not imply a relationship with or endorsement of the companies or brands mentioned in this press release. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Pulmonologists and Rheumatologists Struggle to Diagnose and Manage CTD-ILD, According to New Research from Spherix Global Insights
Systemic sclerosis and myositis interstitial lung disease subtypes flagged as most difficult to manage; specialists cite lack of effective treatments and diagnostic clarity EXTON, PA, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Spherix Global Insights' newly published Special Topix™: Interstitial Lung Disease in Rheumatology (US) report, both rheumatologists and pulmonologists report significant challenges in diagnosing and managing connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD), with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and myositis (IIM) cited as the most difficult subtypes to treat. The research, based on responses from 138 US specialists (n=68 rheumatologists and 70 pulmonologists), highlights persistent unmet needs, diagnostic ambiguity, and a call for more robust and collaborative management strategies. The findings reflect that undiagnosed and misdiagnosed patients make up a substantial portion of the CTD-ILD population, with nearly one-third of rheumatologists and over half of pulmonologists naming differential diagnosis as a key challenge. Specialists underscore a lack of specific biomarkers, logistical biopsy issues, and overlapping symptoms as primary obstacles. 'The most definitive test (biopsy) is invasive. It is difficult to find the clinicians who are willing to do it in a timely manner, and to convince the patient it needs to be done.' – Rheumatologist 'Ensuring the correct diagnosis to avoid misdiagnosing the type of ILD or source of ILD. I usually employ the assistance of a rheumatologist.' – Pulmonologist 'Often it would be difficult to get patients biopsied for logistical reasons, and often the pathology report would not be precise enough.' – Pulmonologist Even once diagnosed, CTD-ILD patients face a treatment landscape with few options to slow or halt disease progression. When asked about the most difficult aspects of management, specialists consistently pointed to a lack of effective and targeted therapies, with SSc-ILD and myositis-ILD receiving the highest unmet need scores. For SSc-ILD specifically, not only is it associated with the most aggressive progression and worst long-term outcomes, but it also presents a uniquely complex therapeutic challenge. The clinical burden is especially pronounced in patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc), where the use of corticosteroids is often limited due to the heightened risk of scleroderma renal crisis. This leaves physicians with a narrow band of anti-fibrotic and immunosuppressive options, many of which are perceived as only modestly effective in controlling ILD progression, let alone reversing it. Even therapies with regulatory approval for SSc-ILD, such as Boehringer Ingelheim's OFEV (nintedanib), garner only measured enthusiasm from treating physicians. While rheumatologists acknowledge nintedanib's potential to slow functional decline, they note it does little to address the underlying autoimmune pathology. Similarly, mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab remain staples of clinical practice, yet their real-world performance is viewed as inconsistent and difficult to monitor. Across the board, satisfaction ratings for currently utilized agents fall short of expectations, reinforcing a treatment landscape still dominated by trial-and-error approaches. This disconnect between disease complexity and treatment efficacy is fueling demand for dual-acting agents, therapies that can address both systemic autoimmunity and pulmonary fibrosis. Nowhere is this demand more visible than in systemic lupus erythematosus-associated ILD (SLE-ILD), where rheumatologists express growing interest in GSK's Benlysta (belimumab). Though not currently approved for ILD, belimumab's immunologic mechanism and expanded label for lupus nephritis have raised hopes that similar benefit may extend to pulmonary manifestations. Across interviews and survey feedback, physicians articulate a desire for treatments that reduce systemic activity while simultaneously preventing fibrotic progression—without the need for an antifibrotic add-on with limited synergy. Looking ahead, specialists are cautiously optimistic about the pipeline. While interest in agents with antifibrotic and immunomodulatory properties is rising, physicians emphasize that what's most needed is not just another drug, but a paradigm shift—a treatment model that reflects the multifaceted nature of CTD-ILD. As one physician summarized, the goal is to "treat the patient, not just the lungs." In addition to tracking physician sentiment and practice patterns, the study includes target product profile evaluations for several pipeline therapies: Benlysta (GSK), BMS-986278 (Bristol Myers Squibb), Nerandomilast (Boehringer Ingelheim), and Treprostinil (United Therapeutics). These profiles offer manufacturers timely insights into clinical expectations, adoption potential, and differentiation opportunities in an increasingly complex ILD treatment landscape. Special Topix™ is an independent service that includes access to a report or series of reports based on current events or topics of interest in specialty markets covered by Spherix. About Spherix Global Insights Spherix is a leading independent market intelligence and advisory firm that delivers commercial value to the global life sciences industry, across the brand lifecycle. The seasoned team of Spherix experts provides an unbiased and holistic view of the landscape within rapidly evolving specialty markets, including dermatology, gastroenterology, rheumatology, nephrology, neurology, ophthalmology, and hematology. Spherix clients stay ahead of the curve with the perspective of the extensive Spherix Physician Community. As a trusted advisor and industry thought leader, Spherix's unparalleled market insights and advisory services empower clients to make better decisions and unlock opportunities for growth. To learn more about Spherix Global Insights, visit or connect through LinkedIn. For more details on Spherix's primary market research reports and interactive dashboard offerings, visit or register here: NOTICE: All company, brand or product names in this press release are trademarks of their respective holders. The findings and opinions expressed within are based on Spherix Global Insight's analysis and do not imply a relationship with or endorsement of the companies or brands mentioned in this press release. CONTACT: Andy Stankus, Rheumatology Franchise Head Spherix Global Insights 4848794284 in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Docs: Pulmonary rehabilitation can help patients with lung diseases
Prayagraj: The rising cases of lung diseases are primarily attributed to pollution, smoking and poor lifestyle choices. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ), ILD, asthma , lung disease and lung cancer often struggle with breathing difficulties. In such situations, pulmonary rehabilitation is a treatment that helps improve the quality of life of these patients, said senior chest physician Dr Gaurav Agrawal, speaking at a CME programme at Allahabad Medical Association (AMA) Convention Centre on Sunday. During his lecture titled Pulmonary Rehabilitation-- Beyond Medication, Agrawal said, "This treatment focuses on exercise, respiratory techniques , diet and mental health. The aim of this process is to increase the breathing capacity of patients and improve energy levels." Dr Agrawal emphasised that "It can be lifesaving, especially for those who have to be hospitalised frequently due to respiratory problems." The programme concentrated on enhancing patients' physical capabilities. Experts explained, "Exercise programmes focus on improving patients' physical and mental capacity. Respiratory techniques also improve the breathing capacity of patients, which allows the use of oxygen more effectively." The comprehensive programme addresses mental health concerns, stress management and proper nutrition. Benefits include enhanced breathing, increased physical endurance, improved mental wellbeing, better ability to perform daily activities, and strengthened muscles for managing lung conditions. Notable participants included Dr JV Rai, Dr Ashish Tandon, Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Dr Sujit Singh, Dr Anoop Chauhan and Dr Atul Dubey.
