pulmonology

Pulmonology, also known as pneumology in some regions, is a medical specialty focused on diseases of the respiratory system, including the lungs, airways, and pleura. Pulmonologists diagnose, treat, and manage acute and chronic conditions that affect breathing and gas exchange, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial and occupational lung diseases, pneumonia, pleural diseases, pulmonary hypertension, lung cancer, and sleep-related breathing disorders.

The field relies on history, examination, and a range of diagnostic tests, including chest imaging, spirometry and other pulmonary function tests, diffusion capacity testing, arterial blood gas analysis, bronchoscopy, and thoracic procedures. CT scanning and ultrasound are commonly used, and multidisciplinary care is typical for complex cases.

Management combines pharmacologic therapy, devices, and supportive care. Treatments include inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, noninvasive and invasive ventilation, pulmonary rehabilitation, antimicrobial therapy for infections, antifibrotic agents for certain interstitial lung diseases, and targeted therapies for cancer. Smoking cessation and vaccination are important preventive measures.

Procedural aspects include bronchoscopy, pleural drainage and biopsy, thoracentesis, and various interventional techniques performed by trained pulmonologists.

Training typically begins with medical school, followed by residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pulmonary medicine. Board certification is offered by appropriate specialty boards. The field is supported by professional organizations such as the American Thoracic Society and the European Respiratory Society and is active in research on disease mechanisms, imaging, biomarkers, and novel therapies.