Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia is a rapidly developing idiopathic interstitial pneumonia characterized by lung inflammation and scarring that obstructs the small airways (bronchioles) and air sacs of the lungs (alveoli).
(See also Overview of Idiopathic Interstitial Pneumonias.)
The disease usually begins between the ages of 40 and 60 years and affects men and women equally. Cigarette smoking does not appear to increase the risk of developing cryptogenic organizing pneumonia.
Almost 75% of people have progressively worsening cough and shortness of breath upon exertion, typically for less than 2 months before seeking medical attention. A flu-like illness, with a cough, fever, a feeling of illness (malaise), fatigue, and weight loss, heralds the onset in about 50% of people.
Diagnosis of Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia
Chest computed tomography
Sometimes lung biopsy
Doctors do not find any specific abnormalities on routine laboratory tests. During a physical examination, when doctors listen to the lungs with a stethoscope, they frequently hear crackling sounds and occasionally squeaking sounds as the person inhales. Pulmonary function testing usually shows that the amount of air the lungs can hold is below normal. The amount of oxygen in the blood is often low when the person is resting and is even lower during exercise.
A chest x-ray can help doctors make the diagnosis, but it is often not conclusive. Computed tomography (CT) may be done, and sometimes the findings are typical enough to allow doctors to make a diagnosis without ordering additional tests.
In other cases, to confirm the diagnosis, doctors do a lung biopsy using a bronchoscope. Many times, a larger sample is needed and must be removed surgically.
Treatment of Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia
Corticosteroids
When treated with corticosteroids, most people recover quickly. However, symptoms may later return, and prolonged treatment is often necessary. If the disease recurs, repeat treatment with corticosteroids is usually effective.
