Scleroderma Stories: Paul’s Lung Transplant

Wendy Henderson avatar

by Wendy Henderson |

Share this article:

Share article via email

In this moving video from Tom Seawell, Paul Cetani tells the story of how he was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

A study found that scleroderma-related pulmonary fibrosis was linked to right ventricular dysfunction. 

Paul was diagnosed with IPF in 2009 and his lungs were so bad doctors said he needed a double lung transplant. However, when they did more tests, he was told that he was not a candidate for the procedure.

Devastated by the news, Paul decided to seek a second opinion and it was during the second round of tests that doctors discovered the reason for his IPF—he also had systemic scleroderma.

Paul’s doctor explains why patients with scleroderma-related pulmonary fibrosis are rarely given the option of having a lung transplant. In Paul’s case, not only had his lungs been affected by scleroderma, but also his esophagus. Paul and his family did their research and finally found a transplant center that would accept him as a patient.

Find out why lung transplants pose higher risks for scleroderma patients.

Scleroderma News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.