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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
09:22
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
Dendriform pulmonary ossification
Andrezza Araújo de Oliveira Duarte1, Jorge Nakatani, Moacyr Pezati Rigueiro
1Hospital Santa Marcelina, São Paulo, SP, Brasil. andrezzaemarcio@aol.com
Summary
Diffuse pulmonary ossification, a rare lung condition, was identified in a 75-year-old man. Histopathology confirmed mature bone in lung tissue, presenting as interstitial fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Diffuse pulmonary ossification (DPO) is a rare condition characterized by mature bone formation within the lung parenchyma.
- Its pathogenesis remains largely unknown, and it is typically an incidental autopsy finding.
- DPO most frequently affects middle-aged men and is usually asymptomatic.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old male presented with diffuse interstitial infiltrates on chest X-ray.
- The patient's clinical presentation prompted further investigation.
- An open-lung biopsy was performed for diagnostic purposes.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination of the lung biopsy revealed interstitial fibrosis.
- Mature bone deposition within the pulmonary interstitium was confirmed.
- These findings established the diagnosis of diffuse pulmonary ossification.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering DPO in patients with unexplained interstitial lung disease.
- Diagnostic confirmation relies on histopathological analysis, often via lung biopsy.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of DPO may lead to improved understanding and potential therapeutic targets.
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