Lipoid Pneumonia and Sarcoidosis.

INTRODUCTION

Lipoid pneumonia is a rare, underdiagnosed disorder, and its combined presentation with sarcoidosis is even more unusual.

METHODS

This paper presents a case in which both lipoid pneumonia and sarcoidosis were present, and includes the relevant literature review on lipoid pneumonia.

RESULTS

Lipoid pneumonia may be acute or chronic in its presentation, resulting from exogenous or endogenous factors, or classified as idiopathic, with its precise incidence unknown. Radiographic changes maybe variable, but typically include lower lobe consolidation. Pathologic changes consist of an inflammatory giant cell reaction around lipid-related empty vacuoles and giant cell granulomas. Treatment in the case of exogenous lipoid pneumonia consists of removal of the offending oil ingestion. However, in endogenous lipoid pneumonia, treatment is aimed at the underlying cause, as there is no standard treatment. Repeated bronchoalveolar lavage, corticosteroids, and surgical resection have been used as therapies. The course of the disease is usually not progressive.