Extrinsic Lipoid Pneumonia due to Chronic Polyethylene Glycol Consumption: A Case Report

Authors

Robert J. Murphy, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University
Steven Tessier, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University
Santo Longo, Department of Pathology, St. Luke's University Health Network, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Christopher S. Alia, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, St. Luke's University Health Network, Bethlehem Pennsylvania
Firas Ido, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, St. Luke's University Health Network, Bethlehem Pennsylvania

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Extrinsic lipoid pneumonia (ELP) results from the aspiration of lipid-containing substances. Tissue or cell histopathology after Oil-Red-O staining can confirm the diagnosis, which requires proper tissue handling and preparation during bronchoscopy. Here, we report a case of ELP in a quadriplegic patient with a long history of dysphagia and polyethylene glycol consumption. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealed multiple, progressively enlarging, fat-attenuated, nodular pulmonary lesions. Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and a transbronchial forceps biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of lipoid pneumonia. We discuss the clinical, radiological, and pathological features of ELP and highlight the preparatory steps required for obtaining a successful diagnosis.

DOI

10.1016/j.resinv.2023.08.002

Publication Date

Fall 9-15-2023

Recommended Citation

Murphy, Robert J.; Tessier, Steven; Longo, Santo; Alia, Christopher S.; and Ido, Firas, "Extrinsic Lipoid Pneumonia due to Chronic Polyethylene Glycol Consumption: A Case Report" (2023). Department of Emergency Medicine @SLUHN Articles & Publications. 32.
https://crin.sluhn.org/emergmed_ap/32