Role of long-term oxygen therapy in interstitial lung diseases

Abstract Background Long-term oxygen therapy in patients with interstitial lung diseases is frequently given in order to enhance gas exchange, lessen dyspnea, and increase physical activity. Objective To evaluate how individuals with hypoxemia and interstitial lung disease respond to long-term oxygen therapy. Results Between October 2019 and July 2021, this prospective analytical (cross-sectional) study was carried out at the Assiut University Hospital’s Chest Department. Seventy ILD patients were evaluated utilizing a 6-min walk test (SMWT), the St. George respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ), MMRC, and echocardiography and follow-up was done at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months for ABG, SMWT, and MMRC. As regards echocardiography and SGRQ, a follow-up was done on admission and 1 year after starting LTOT. Significant improvement in St. George’s respiratory questionnaire score, MMRC, and EF by echocardiography was observed meanwhile PASP showed insignificant reduction. Conclusion Long-term oxygen therapy is beneficial for patients with ILD and hypoxemia. Trial registration Long-term oxygen therapy in patients with interstitial lung disease: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04089826 Registered on September 12, 2019.