What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)? Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions National Jewish Health explains idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and why its causes are unknown. Related Videos Advance Directive: Tools for Communicating Your Health Care Wishes How Palliative Care Services Can Help Individuals with Chronic Conditions Understanding Oxygen Systems Traveling with Oxygen The Symptoms of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Management Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Testing The Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Program at National Jewish Health Transcript Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or IPF is a scarring disease of the lung. So, this is a disease in which the normal sponge or meaty part of the lung becomes scarred or fibrotic. The cause is unknown, thus the name is idiopathic. There are a number of different causes for pulmonary fibrosis, but idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a specific diagnosis that has a specific pattern either on CT scan or surgical lung biopsy. Want to use this on your website? Fill out the content usage request form and then copy this code: