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Pulmonary hemosiderosis in a child with cystic fibrosis
E A Valletta1, M Cipolli, G Cazzola
1Cystic Fibrosis and Pediatric Pneumology Center, Ospedale Civile Maggiore, Verona, Italy.
Insights
A child with cystic fibrosis experienced acute iron deficiency anemia and pulmonary exacerbations. Hemosiderin-laden macrophages in sputum suggested coexisting pulmonary hemosiderosis, potentially linked to CF
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
Background:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organs, primarily the lungs.
- Pulmonary exacerbations are common complications in CF patients.
- Iron deficiency anemia can occur in chronic inflammatory conditions.
Observation:
- A pediatric patient with CF presented with recurrent acute iron deficiency anemia.
- Symptoms included blood-stained sputum and severe acute pulmonary exacerbations.
- Hemosiderin-laden macrophages (siderophages) were identified in sputum and gastric aspirates.
Findings:
- The findings suggest the co-occurrence of pulmonary hemosiderosis (PH) in a child with CF.
- The presence of siderophages indicates iron deposition in the lungs.
- This case highlights a potential link between CF-related pulmonary inflammation and PH.
Implications:
- Investigating immune-mediated pathways in CF may elucidate the pathogenesis of PH.
- Early recognition of PH in CF patients is crucial for timely management.
- This case underscores the complexity of respiratory complications in cystic fibrosis.
Abstract:
Two episodes of acute iron deficiency anemia with blood-stained sputum and symptoms of severe acute pulmonary exacerbation were observed in a child with cystic fibrosis (CF). Hemosiderin laden macrophages (siderophages) were repeatedly found in sputum and gastric juice, suggesting the coexistence of pulmonary hemosiderosis (PH). The possibility that pulmonary immune-mediated mechanisms characteristic of CF may have played a role in the development of PH is considered.