Mineral oil lipoid pneumonia in a child with anoxic encephalopathy: treatment by whole lung lavage

Pediatr Pulmonol. 1997 Mar;23(3):233-7. doi: 10.1002/(sici)1099-0496(199703)23:3<233::aid-ppul11>3.0.co;2-8.

Abstract

We describe a case of exogenous lipoid pneumonia in a child with anoxic encephalopathy who was taking mineral oil for constipation. Computed tomography produced images suggesting this condition, and the diagnosis was confirmed by demonstrating the presence of lipid-laden alveolar macrophages in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Despite discontinuing the offending agent, the pulmonary infiltrates did not improve; however, successful resolution was obtained by whole lung lavage.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / cytology
  • Bronchoalveolar Lavage*
  • Cathartics / adverse effects*
  • Cathartics / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Constipation / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia, Brain / complications*
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Mineral Oil / adverse effects*
  • Mineral Oil / therapeutic use
  • Pneumonia, Lipid / diagnosis
  • Pneumonia, Lipid / etiology
  • Pneumonia, Lipid / therapy*
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Cathartics
  • Mineral Oil