Using BAL Cellular Analysis in Interstitial Lung Disease The role of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in diagnosing and managing patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) has always been uncertain and controversial. BAL findings are usually nonspecific, suggesting rather than proving the existence of any particular noninfectious condition (including interstitial lung disease). That said, in patients with new interstitial opacities and respiratory symptoms (cough, dyspnea), BAL can sometimes be helpful.
Using bronchoalveolar lavage to evaluate ILD
Using bronchoalveolar lavage to evaluate ILD
Using bronchoalveolar lavage to evaluate ILD
Using BAL Cellular Analysis in Interstitial Lung Disease The role of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in diagnosing and managing patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) has always been uncertain and controversial. BAL findings are usually nonspecific, suggesting rather than proving the existence of any particular noninfectious condition (including interstitial lung disease). That said, in patients with new interstitial opacities and respiratory symptoms (cough, dyspnea), BAL can sometimes be helpful.