1.1.1
Be aware of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis when assessing a patient with the clinical features listed below and when considering requesting a chest X‑ray or referring to a specialist:
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age over 45 years
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persistent breathlessness on exertion
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persistent cough
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bilateral inspiratory crackles when listening to the chest
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clubbing of the fingers
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normal spirometry or impaired spirometry usually with a restrictive pattern but sometimes with an obstructive pattern.