What Is Childhood Interstitial Lung Disease?

Childhood interstitial lung disease (chILD) is a rare chronic lung condition in children that affects the interstitium, which is the delicate tissue that surrounds the air sacs in the lungs. It includes a group of rare lung diseases that can cause scarring and inflammation of the lungs in children. In chILD, the damage occurs to the small air sacs (alveoli) and the tiny airways (bronchioles) in the lungs. Children with chILD often have difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and fatigue. The exact cause of chILD is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for chILD may include medications, oxygen therapy, and lung transplant in severe cases. With early diagnosis and proper management, many children with chILD can lead normal and productive lives.