Progressive Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (PLCH)
▶ Watch on YouTube — age-restricted, cannot embed here
Imaging findings
Early findings (2010 radiograph) showed multifocal parenchymal opacities. Later (2011 CT), cystic changes and nodules (some cavitating) were seen, evolving into very severe and extensive lung disease by 2013 with extensive irregular cystic spaces. Airway narrowing was also observed, with thickened anterior airway walls and a narrow bronchus intermedius. Nodular lesions were also seen in the airways.
Key takeaways
A florid and progressive case of pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (PLCH) in a smoker. It beautifully demonstrates the evolution from early nodular and cystic lesions to severe, 'burned-out' disease, ultimately leading to transplant consideration. The case also raises the speculation of direct airway involvement by Langerhans cell histiocytosis given the observed airway narrowing and nodules.
AI-assisted summary — may contain errors. Verify against the source video. Learn more
More from this webinar
- Coxsackie Viral Constrictive PericarditisInfection
- Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (Bird Fancier's Lung)ILD
- Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (Pigeon Breeder's Lung) with Air TrappingILD
- Acute Myocardial Infarction (LAD Distribution) on Abdominal CTVascular
- TAVI Malposition with Dual Valve ImplantationIatrogenic
- Lupus-Related Cystic Lung Disease Mimicking FibrosisAutoimmune
- Lupus-Related Lung Disease Evolving to a UIP-like PatternAutoimmune
- Smoking-Related Bronchiolitis/DIP Mimicking Hypersensitivity PneumonitisILD
See all cases from February 26, 2016 →
Related ILD cases
- Lupus with Cystic Lung Destruction (mimicking honeycombing)
- Bleomycin-induced Lung Injury
- Sjogren's Syndrome with NSIP, Follicular Bronchiolitis, and Cysts (mimicking honeycombing)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis-associated Interstitial Lung Disease (RA-ILD) with UIP Pattern and Centrilobular Holes
- Lymphoid Interstitial Pneumonia (LIP) progressing to Fibrosis
- Radiation-Induced Organizing Pneumonia (from low-dose chest wall radiation)