Interstitial lung disease

The pulmonary interstitium refers to the lung tissue excluding the lung parenchyma (alveoli and bronchi). It includes connective tissue, lymphatic vessels, nerve fibers, and blood vessels. These tissues are distributed among all parenchymal structures, providing connection, filling, fixation, and nourishment. Interstitial lung disease is a group of lung diseases primarily affecting the pulmonary interstitium and alveolar spaces, characterized by progressive inflammation and fibrosis. The most common symptom of interstitial lung disease is shortness of breath, which can worsen over time.