Summary
There are more than 200 different diseases classed as interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). For epidemiological and practical purposes, ILDs are classified into diseases of known and unknown etiology. The aim of this review is to evaluate our current knowledge about the efficacy and safety of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with ILDs. Other issues, such as ILD pathogenesis, prevalence and comorbidity, are also elaborated in the review. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an important part of comprehensive care for patients with ILDs. In comparison to PR for patients with chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD), the number of clinical studies concerning PR for patients with ILDs is small. The majority of trials have been performed in relatively small groups of patients. The principles of PR in this group of patients are the same as for patients with COPD. Exercise-induced desaturation is frequently observed during PR, which is the main source of complications in patients with ILDs. Major differences between ILD and COPD patients include poorer exercise tolerance and faster development of respiratory failure in patients with ILDs.

Relevance
Pulmonary rehabilitation is an important part of comprehensive care for patients with ILDs. The principles of rehabilitation in this group of patients do not differ from the standards of PR for patients with COPD; the major differences are due to poorer exercise tolerance and faster development of respiratory failure in patients with ILDs.
Exercise-induced desaturation is frequently observed during PR. This is the main source of complications in patients with ILDs, and it occurs more frequently than in COPD patients. Pulmonary rehabilitation centers for ILD patients should be equipped with an oxygen source, a resuscitation kit, a defibrillator, and experienced staff. Early qualification and stabilization of the progression of ILDs and any accompanying diseases can reduce the risk of complications and achieve visible improvement in the patient’s health status.