KMI Hanguk Medical Research Institute Introduces Early Diagnosis Tests for Pulmonary Fibrosis and Interstitial Lung Disease

by Lee Gwanju

Published 10 Apr.2023 14:59(KST)

KMI Korea Medical Institute announced on the 10th that it has introduced a blood test for the early diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease, which will be conducted at KMI health screening centers nationwide.

[Photo by KMI Korean Medical Institute]

Pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease are intractable diseases in which lung tissue inflammation causes scarring and hardening, leading to insufficient oxygen supply and symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dry cough, and chest pain.

The newly introduced "KL-6 test" at eight KMI screening centers nationwide measures the blood concentration of KL-6, a biomarker for interstitial lung disease. The KL-6 level in the blood is useful for detecting the presence of pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease, assessing disease activity, and predicting prognosis. It is especially helpful in checking lung health status after a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Higher KL-6 levels are associated with rapid decline in lung function and decreased survival rates. Since lung damage is difficult to repair once it occurs, early diagnosis and prevention are of utmost importance. A KMI official stated, "We will do our best to continuously introduce high-quality services that help in the early diagnosis of major diseases and health promotion, expanding the options for examinees and enhancing testing convenience."

KMI Korea Medical Institute, established in 1985, operates health screening centers in eight locations nationwide: three in Seoul (Gwanghwamun, Yeouido, Gangnam) and five in other regions (Suwon, Daegu, Busan, Gwangju, Jeju). In addition to activities for early disease detection, prevention, and public health promotion, it carries out various social contribution projects.