Better Tests- Improving Diagnostic Accuracy and Prognostication in Interstitial Lung Diseases

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to improve diagnosis and prediction of outcomes in people at risk for or diagnosed with interstitial lung diseases (ILD). It focuses on evaluating non-invasive tests based on blood and breath samples, especially among Pigeon Fanciers who have a higher risk of developing ILD due to their bird exposure. The study will also include patients diagnosed with ILD, including those with severe respiratory failure, to better understand how these tests relate to disease progression and patient experience. Participants will be grouped as active Pigeon Fanciers, ILD clinic patients, or hospital patients with ILD. Initial assessments for Pigeon Fanciers include collecting height, weight, lung function tests, medical history, and pigeon exposure details. Blood samples will be taken to measure antibodies and other biomarkers, and breath samples will be collected for analysis. Repeated assessments will be done over time to observe changes related to exposure or illness development. Participants will attend assessments at national pigeon meetings or clinical visits, where researchers will measure lung function, collect samples, and record symptoms and health changes. These data will help link test results to clinical outcomes over five years, including disease progression, treatment response, and survival. The study also evaluates how acceptable these tests are to participants, aiming to guide future clinical trials and improve ILD care.

Better Tests- Improving Diagnostic Accuracy and Prognostication in Interstitial Lung Diseases