pulmonologia

Pulmonology, also known as pneumology in some languages, is a medical specialty dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the respiratory system. This includes the airways, lungs, and associated structures such as the pleura and chest wall. Pulmonologists manage both acute and chronic conditions that affect breathing and gas exchange.

Common conditions addressed by pulmonology include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, tuberculosis, interstitial lung diseases, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary hypertension, lung cancer, and sleep-disordered breathing such as obstructive sleep apnea. The field relies on a range of diagnostic tools, including patient history and physical examination, pulmonary function tests (spirometry and related measurements), chest imaging (radiographs and CT scans), bronchoscopy, arterial blood gas analysis, and evolving imaging and laboratory techniques.

Treatment in pulmonology may involve pharmacologic therapies (bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals), oxygen therapy, noninvasive and invasive ventilation, and pulmonary rehabilitation. In some cases, procedures such as bronchoscopic interventions or thoracic surgical options, including lung transplantation, may be indicated. The discipline also encompasses critical care for patients with respiratory failure and chronic care management, including lifestyle modification and vaccination.

Training for pulmonologists typically includes medical school, followed by residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pulmonology. Subspecialties include interventional pulmonology, sleep medicine, thoracic oncology, and critical care. The field emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration with radiology, thoracic surgery, allergy and immunology, and intensive care to optimize patient outcomes.