[A case of pulmonary eosinophilic granuloma diagnosed by TBLB]

A case of pulmonary eosinophilic granuloma which was diagnosed by TBLB was presented. A 24-year-old male was admitted complaining of cough and fever of unknown etiology. He had a history of fever which had disappeared spontaneously 9 months previously. Laboratory examinations including blood gas analysis and pulmonary function tests showed no significant abnormalities. Chest roentgenogram showed faint linear opacities. Computed tomography revealed multiple small cysts and small nodular lesions mainly in the upper lung field. CT findings were strongly suggested pulmonary eosinophilic granuloma. TBLB was performed and 6 specimens were obtained, of which 4 showed granulomatous lesions consisting of histiocytosis X cell and inflammatory cells with infiltration of eosinophils. Furthermore, granulomatous lesions were positive for S-100 protein staining. The effectiveness of open lung biopsy has been emphasized in the diagnosis of pulmonary eosinophilic granuloma, however, TBLB is also useful for diagnosis, especially in the active or early stage of this disease.