Exogenous lipoid pneumonitis

The clinical and radiologic diagnosis of exogenous lipoid pneumonitis often goes unrecognized. A specific history of lipoid aspiration is rarely obtained unless specifically sought. We analysed the clinical, radiologic and pathologic findings in 11 patients with pathologically-proven exogenous lipoid pneumonitis. Lipid aspiration results in a predictable pathologic and consequently radiologic pattern of disease, often simulating bronchogenic carcinoma. Transthoracic percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy is useful as a complementary procedure to bronchoscopy in making the diagnosis.