Background
Home Telemedicine (HT) in pulmonology has been already adopted. Few data are available on its role in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The aim of our study is to assess validity and reproducibility of home self-measuring spirometry vs hospital spirometry and to assess HT role in preventing acute exacerbations (AE), by identifying early deterioration of symptoms, pulmonary volumes and quality of life, and in improving compliance to antifibrotics.
 
Methods
This is a prospective study ongoing at Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria delle Marche (Ancona, IT). IPF patients are provided with a portable spirometer, pulse oximeter and a tablet and are trained for a correct use of them. During the study period (18 months), patients should perform measurements of lung volumes and saturation and fill out validated questionnaires related to quality of life and drug adverse events. Each device sends data via wireless protected connection to an operating system, accessible on a website. Significant longitudinal decrease of FVC and saturation are immediately transmitted by the operating system to alert physicians.
 
Results
82 patients have been currently included and initial data shows that difference between a self-made and hospital-based spirometry in lung volumes is inferior to 200 mL in 86% of patients. Very similar values of saturation are detected at hospital and at home. No issues in filling out questionnaires on the tablet have been reported by patients. No AE have occurred yet.

Conclusions

Preliminary data showed that HT can be a reliable, feasible and useful tool for monitoring patients with IPF. HT role in preventing AE and in improving compliance to antifibrotics will be analyzed at the end of the study.