Pulmonary Diagnosis & Second Opinion
Because so many diseases cause respiratory symptoms
or abnormal chest X-rays, pulmonary medicine
is one of the premier diagnostic specialties
of medicine. At Penn, attending pulmonologists
and thoracic surgeons in the Pulmonary Diagnosis & Second
Opinion Program collaborate with Lung Center
colleagues in Allergy & Immunology, Chest Radiology,
Lung Pathology and a variety of other disciplines
to provide definitive diagnoses and second opinions
on problems affecting the respiratory system.
We also draw upon Penn's extensive library and
research facilities to uncover unusual or innovative
solutions.
Patients are referred to this program from across
the mid-Atlantic region of the United States
and beyond. Some seek a second opinion on the
cause of persistent respiratory symptoms or an
abnormal chest X-ray. Some seek advice on whether
or when to undergo surgery. Others come to learn
the newest treatment options for a rare, complex
or severe lung disease recently diagnosed elsewhere.
Several of the reasons why patients may be referred
to this program include:
- chronic, severe cough of unknown cause
- shortness of breath of undetermined cause
- thoracic surgery second opinion
- chronic interstitial lung disease
- management of bronchiectasis
- management of severe asthma or emphysema
- recurrent or unresolved pneumonia
- second opinion on performing a lung biopsy
or lung resection
- second opinion on diagnosis and management
of a rare lung disease
Patients should bring copies of recent medical
records, chest X-rays, CT scans and lung biopsy
slides, if available, to the first visit. A letter
of introduction from the referring physician
is greatly appreciated. Two or three visits may
be necessary, depending on the nature or complexity
of the problem.
We provide detailed answers to questions from
patients and family members during the visit.
A complete written report is prepared for patients
and referring physicians.
Locations
Hospital of the University
of Pennsylvania
3 Silverstein, Suite B
3400 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Driving Directions
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
54 N. 39th Street
1st Floor, Philadelphia Heart Institute Building
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Driving Directions
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