Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE), describes a medical syndrome involving both pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema.[1][2] The combination is most commonly found in male smokers. Pulmonary function tests typically show preserved lung volume with very low transfer factor.[3]
Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema | |
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Other names | CPFE |
Specialty | Pulmonology |
CFPE is characterised by shortness of breath, and reduced oxygen concentration (reflecting gas exchange abnormalities). Imaging shows upper-lobe emphysema, and lower-lobe interstitial fibrosis.[4] CFPE is often complicated by pulmonary hypertension, acute lung injury, lung cancer, and coronary artery disease.[4]
The diagnosis is confirmed with high resolution CT scan.[5]