The CD8 count in the BALF was higher in the CTD-ILD group than in the IPF and IIPs groups (mean [IQR], CTD-ILD group: 55.2 [31.5–65.2], IPF group: 21 [15.9–24.8], IIPs group: 27 [15.1–39]; p value [one-way ANOVA]: 0.005). Here, CD8A is linked to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.