Table 1

Criteria suggested for defining an acute exacerbation of IPF

Previous or concurrent diagnosis of IPF

Unexplained worsening or development of dyspnea within 30 days

HRCT with new bilateral ground-glass abnormality and/or consolidation superimposed on a background reticular or honeycomb pattern consistent with UIP

No evidence of pulmonary infection by endotracheal aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage

Exclusion of alternative causes, including the following:

Left heart failure

Pulmonary embolism

Identifiable cause of acute lung injury

Hogaboam et al. Fibrogenesis & Tissue Repair 2012 5(Suppl 1):S3   doi:10.1186/1755-1536-5-S1-S3