J84.8: Other specified interstitial pulmonary diseases

Other specified interstitial pulmonary diseases (code J84.8) are a category of lung diseases associated with progressive scarring of both the lung tissue specifically between the air sacs. Thus, these conditions induce a restriction in the lungs' capability to fully expand and draw in air. The etiology/root causes of the diseases under this classification vary, yet recurrent lung infections, certain drugs, radiation treatment, and exposure to specific environmental factors like asbestos or silica dust may trigger onset. Symptoms usually include chronic shortness of breath, cough, and in severe cases fatigue or unintentional weight loss. Over time, the scarring in the lungs progressively worsens leading to increasing breathlessness. The conditions affect the respiratory system by diminishing lung volume and compromising gas exchange efficiency.