Increased FDG Uptake and Chronic Lung Changes in a Case of Persistent Lipoid Pneumonia

Lipoid pneumonia is uncommon disease caused by presence of macroscopic fat in the lung parenchyma commonly originating from exogenous source secondary to aspiration or inhalation of animal fats or mineral or vegetable oils. Alternatively, it can be due to endogenous fat accumulated in the alveoli in the setting of chronic bronchial obstruction or inflammation. The imaging findings include ground-glass opacities, consolidation, nodules, and masses. Presence of macroscopic fat on CT is helpful; however it might not always be present. Increased FDG uptake can be present secondary to ongoing inflammation mimicking malignancy. Tissue diagnosis might be needed in some cases.