Lymphocytic Interstitial Pneumonia with Varied Association: Case Series

Abstract

Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) is an unusual variant of interstitial lung disease with unknown incidence and prevalence. It is often seen in patients with autoimmune diseases and in immune-compromised individuals, and is associated with specific infections; rarely, it is idiopathic. Idiopathic LIP has a male preponderance, while the secondary form is more common in females. It is characterized by dense infiltration of polyclonal lymphocytes, plasma cells, and histiocytes in the interstitial and alveolar spaces. Early diagnosis and treatment initiation are crucial for a favorable prognosis. Here, we present four cases of LIP with variable associations, emphasizing the importance of clinical examination, imaging, and, whenever needed, a transbronchial lung biopsy for accurate diagnosis.

Keywords

• autoimmune disease
• bronchoalveolar lavage
• human immunodeficiency virus
• cystic lung disease
• corticosteroids