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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2002; 23(2): 093-102
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-25299
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Pulmonary Langerhans' Cell Histiocytosis

Robert Vassallo, Andrew H. Limper
  • Thoracic Diseases Research Unit, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 April 2002 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Pulmonary Langerhans' cell histiocytosis (PLCH) remains an important diagnostic consideration in the differential diagnosis of diffuse infiltrative lung disease, particular among smokers. This review highlights recent progress in our understanding of the etiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to this unusual lung disorder. Evolving studies strongly link the basic pathogenesis of PLCH as an uncommon reaction to tobacco smoke. Recent progress in the clinical approach to these patients has emphasized important roles for high-resolution computed tomographic (CT) scanning and immune reactive tissue markers including cluster differentiation (CD) 1a antigen in the diagnosis of this disorder. A rationale diagnostic algorithm and current management strategies are summarized.

KEYWORD

Pulmonary Langerhans' cell histiocytosis - pulmonary eosinophilic granuloma - Langerhans' cells

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