[Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis in children. A report on 7 cases (author's transl)]

The authors describe 7 cases of idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis occurring in children, and emphasize the diagnostic value of the association of pulmonary and anemic manifestations, one of which could appear to be an isolated finding and thus delay diagnosis. Complementary investigations are discussed and the relative inocuity of a lung biopsy with a Gerbeaux needle, and the greater value of bronchoscopic samples over those obtained by gastric intubation for evaluating the presence of siderophagic activity emphasized. Functional pulmonary tests, especially for blood gases and ventilatory function, were also conducted. The difficulties in classifying the various types of pulmonary hemosiderosis, especially the "idiopathic" form in children, are outlined. Immunological disorders must be systematically searched for in order to choose the most effective therapy: corticoids or immunodepressants.