Infiltrative and interstitial lung disease in the elderly patient.

The interstitial lung diseases encompass a wide array of inflammatory and fibrotic processes that produce a significant amount of morbidity in the elderly. Diagnosis usually requires a systematic approach and often requires lung biopsy. Treatment typically involves the use of immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids or cytotoxic agents. The use of these medications in the elderly demands meticulous, close follow-up because side-effects can be substantial.