Exogenous Lipoid Pneumonia Caused by E-Cigarette Use Following Exposure to Oil Spray and Waterproofing Spray: A Case...

Organic solvents contained in oil and waterproofing sprays, along with glycerin and propylene glycol found in e-cigarettes, have been reported to trigger exogenous lipoid pneumonia. We report a 30-year-old male who developed lipoid pneumonia following exposure to paraffin-based oil spray, waterproofing spray, and subsequent e-cigarette use. Initial evaluation suggested occupational asthma due to elevated IgE and fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels, but inhaled corticosteroid therapy was ineffective. Chest computed tomography eventually revealed diffuse ground-glass opacities, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis demonstrated lipid-laden macrophages, confirming the diagnosis. Component analysis indicated that e-cigarette vapor containing glycerin and propylene glycol was the primary trigger, whereas occupational exposures contributed minimally. The patient was managed with observation without steroid therapy, and symptoms resolved over 4 months with lifestyle modifications, including cessation of e-cigarette use. This case highlights the combined impact of occupational and lifestyle factors in exogenous lipoid pneumonia and emphasizes the importance of assessing inhaled substances, workplace environment, and e-cigarette use to determine the cause and guide exposure control.