Lipoid pneumonia, also called lipid pneumonia, is an uncommon disease caused by the presence of lipid in the lung.
If the lipid/oil in the respiratory tract is from an exogenous source, it's called exogenous lipoid pneumonia.
If the lipid/oil is from endogenous/idiopathic source, it's called endogenous lipoid pneumonia. This type is also called cholesterol pneumonia, since the fat particles accumulate in the lungs.
Some common symptoms of lipoid pneumonia can include:
- chest pain
- chronic cough
- difficulty breathing
Other, less common symptoms can include:
- fever
- coughing up blood
- weight loss
- night sweats
- difficulty swallowing
Exogenous lipoid pneumonia occurs when a fatty substance is inhaled. For example, petroleum jelly applied to the inside of the nostril can lead to this.
Endogenous lipoid pneumonia's cause is less clear. Some cases are linked to airway blockage by a lung tumor.
Treatment include anti-inflammatory medication, oxygen therapy.
