Unusual lymphoproliferative disorders in nine adults with HIV or AIDS: CT and pathologic findings.

PURPOSE

To identify characteristic computed tomographic (CT) findings in unusual pulmonary lymphoproliferative disorders seen in adults with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the CT scans and pathologic specimens from nine patients with pulmonary lymphoproliferative disorders. CT scans were evaluated for nodules, reticulation, areas of ground-glass attenuation, consolidation, and bronchial disease. Changes seen in pathologic specimens were classified as consistent with classic lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis (LIP), mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (MALTOMA), or atypical lymphoproliferative disorder (ALD). Immunopathologic results were reviewed when available.

RESULTS

Eight patients had AIDS. Five patients had classic LIP. One patient had MALTOMA, and three patients had ALD. Altogether, 2-4-mm-diameter nodules were the predominant CT finding in eight patients; these were peribronchovascular in four patients. The presence of interstitial nodules correlated with the pathologic finding of nodular disease in seven patients.

CONCLUSION

Familiarity with these AIDS-related disorders and their CT appearance should assist in the differential diagnosis.