Maine Medical Center

Diffuse Lung Disease

Diffuse lung disease is a broad term used to describe over 200 lung diseases that are similar in presentation. They are also collectively referred to as pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, and specifically as Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).  The diseases are characterized by thickening of the various parts of the lung leading to shortness of breath, low oxygen levels and cough.

Diffuse Lung Disease Services

Maine Medical Center provides thorough evaluation, second opinion consultations, treatment and continuing care for patients with diffuse lung disease. Inpatient care is available at MMC Bramhall campus and outpatient care is available at Chest Medicine Associates in South Portland. Services include:

  • Comprehensive evaluation with rheumatology, radiology, pathology and thoracic surgery consultations as necessary
  • Complete pulmonary function testing
  • Cardiopulmonary exercise testing
  • Chest imaging including high resolution CT scanning
  • Evaluation for secondary pulmonary hypertension

Therapeutic services stress coordination of care with the referring primary physician to provide high quality care for these patients. Patient education and support is provided by physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses and medical assistants. Services include advanced therapeutic options with novel medications, assessment for home oxygen therapy, referral for pulmonary rehabilitation, and coordination of care for transplant evaluation. Other investigational treatment options may also be available to suitable patients.

Contact Us

Outpatient Referrals & Appointments

Phone: 207-828-1122
Fax: 207-828-0188

Inpatient Referrals & Hospital-to-Hospital Transfers

Phone: 207-662- 6632
Fax: 207-662-4691