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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis in the setting of lung growth abnormality: radiographic and pathologic
Monette Castillo1, Aruna Vade, Jennifer Eden Lim-Dunham
1Department of Radiology, Loyola University Health System, Maywood, IL 60153, USA. mcastillo@lumc.edu
Insights
Pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis (PIG), a rare pediatric lung disease, can occur with lung growth abnormalities. Diagnosis requires histopathology due to nonspecific imaging findings in infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Neonatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis (PIG) is an uncommon cause of respiratory distress in neonates.
- Interstitial lung diseases in children often present with nonspecific radiographic findings.
Observation:
- A term infant boy exhibited tachypnea and required oxygen support shortly after birth.
- Imaging revealed hyperinflation, diffuse interstitial markings, and cystic changes on chest X-ray and HRCT.
- Open lung biopsy showed PIG with underlying poor alveolarization.
Findings:
- This case suggests PIG may be more prevalent in conjunction with lung growth abnormalities than previously recognized.
- The histopathological findings were crucial for differentiating PIG from other pediatric interstitial lung diseases.
Implications:
- Early recognition and accurate diagnosis of PIG are vital for appropriate management of affected infants.
- Further research into the association between PIG and lung development is warranted.
Abstract:
Pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis (PIG) is a rare pediatric interstitial lung disease. We report a case of a term boy presenting with tachypnea at birth requiring supplemental oxygen. Chest radiographs followed by high-resolution CT (HRCT) demonstrated hyperinflation and diffuse interstitial markings interspersed with multiple cystic spaces. An open lung biopsy demonstrated a minor component of PIG superimposed upon poor alveolarization. PIG in the setting of lung growth abnormality might be more common than previously described. Additionally, radiographic findings associated with most pediatric interstitial lung diseases are nonspecific, and histopathologic correlation is essential for diagnosis.
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