What is Lipoid Pneumonia? Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & More

• Written by Sejal Singhania

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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Have you ever heard of pneumonia caused by something other than germs, such as oil? Imagine a little fat particle infiltrating your lungs and causing harm without anyone realising it. That is what lipoid pneumonia is. This rare type of pneumonia can show up with a severe cough, chest discomfort, and breathing difficulties. In this blog, we will discover the causes, symptoms, and treatment of lipoid pneumonia, which will help us understand the mysteries behind this less-known lung infection.

What is Lipoid Pneumonia?

Lipoid pneumonia, commonly known as lipid pneumonia, is a severe lung infection. It occurs when lipids (fats) from external sources (such as oils) or internally produced lipids (endogenous lipids) are inhaled or aspirated into the lungs and cause inflammation. This inflammation may decrease the lungs' capacity to function effectively. Lipoid pneumonia can negatively impact respiratory health and well-being by making breathing difficult and raising the risk of infection.

Types of Lipoid Pneumonia

There are two main types of lipoid pneumonia:

Exogenous Lipoid Pneumonia

Exogenous lipoid pneumonia (ELP) is a type of lung inflammation caused by aspirating or inhaling lipid-containing substances such as mineral oil, plant-based oils, or animal-based oils. Due to continued exposure to oil-containing substances, it can be extreme, severe, and long-term.

Endogenous Lipoid Pneumonia

Endogenous lipoid pneumonia, sometimes called cholesterol pneumonia or idiopathic pneumonia, is an uncommon illness in which lipids build up in the lungs—more precisely, in the alveoli—without being aspirated or inhaled.

What are the Early Symptoms of Lipoid Pneumonia?

The symptoms of both types of lipoid pneumonia are distinctive for each individual. Some people have modest symptoms, while many experience no symptoms at all. Some of the common lipoid pneumonia symptoms include:

• Cough or Coughing up blood
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Fever

Causes of Lipoid Pneumonia

Lipoid Pneumonia is not widely known, but understanding its causes is critical for early detection and prevention. Let's explore the primary causes of this uncommon lung infection:

• Inhalation of mineral oil
• Aspiration of petroleum jelly
• Oil-based medication and nasal drops
• Chronic use of lipid-containing supplements
• Ingestion of fatty foods before bedtime
• Oil-based substances found in e-cigarettes

Risk Factors

Various risk factors are present for lipoid pneumonia, a lung disease caused by fat accumulation in the lungs. These risks mainly depend on the type of lipoid pneumonia.

Exogenous Lipoid Pneumonia Risk Factors 

Risk factors for exogenous lipoid pneumonia may include:

• Aspiration of oils like mineral oil, vegetable oils, animal fats, and oil-based drugs.
• Neuromuscular disorders that impair swallowing and raise the possibility of aspiration.
• Oils from the stomach can reflux into the lungs due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Some medications, like amiodarone, have been linked to lipoid pneumonia.
• Loss of consciousness

Endogenous Lipoid Pneumonia Risk Factors

Risk factors for endogenous lipoid pneumonia may include:

• Damage to the alveolar cell walls of the lungs
• Smoking is also another risk factor for lipoid pneumonia.
• Those who are older or have suffered from aspiration.
• Certain diseases, like Krabbe disease and Niemann-Pick disease
• Aspiration conditions, such as neuromuscular disorders or esophageal abnormalities. 

How is Lipoid Pneumonia diagnosed?

Lipoid pneumonia is difficult to detect since its symptoms frequently resemble those of the lung disease. However, doctors diagnose lipoid pneumonia using a range of methods, some of which include:

• Clinical History - Doctors will ask about any recent or comprehensive history of exposure to oil-based substances, such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, and so on, which is a key sign.
• CT Scan - High-resolution CT scans are considered the most useful imaging technique for diagnosing lipoid pneumonia. Other features that can be seen on CT scans include pleural effusions, marginated nodules, pneumatoceles, pneumomediastinum, ground-glass or consolidative opacities, and pneumothorax.
• Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) - It is a microscopy method in which a sample of lung fluid is taken and examined under a microscope. This technique aids in the diagnosis of the fat-filled immune cells. 
• Lung Biopsy - This is a rare method used when the diagnosis remains unclear. A tissue sample is taken to confirm the presence of fat deposits in the lungs.

Treatment of Lipoid Pneumonia

The treatment for lipoid pneumonia focuses on reducing exposure to the harmful oily substance and controlling lung inflammation. Some of the approaches that doctors employ to treat lipoid pneumonia are:

Discontinuing Exposure to an Oily Substance 

The primary treatment for lipoid pneumonia is to immediately stop inhaling any oil-based product that may be the root cause of the illness, whether it be mineral oil, vegetable oil, nasal spray, or occupational exposure.

Medication 

Doctors may prescribe corticosteroids (especially if there is significant respiratory distress) to treat symptoms and reduce lung inflammation in certain situations. In more severe cases of the illness, steroids can help regulate the immune response and reduce further tissue damage.

Supportive Care

In moderate and severe cases, patients may require supportive measures, such as oxygen therapy and hydration, to help heal lung and reduce symptoms.

Monitoring and Follow-up 

Regular follow-up visits and check-ups are crucial for monitoring progress, adjusting treatment as needed, and avoiding long-term consequences.

Antibiotics 

Antibiotics may be administered alongside other treatments if there is a secondary bacterial infection in addition to Lipoid Pneumonia. Treating bacterial infections promptly will help avoid problems and speed up healing.

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Take Good Care of Your Lungs! 

Lipoid pneumonia is uncommon, but it reminds us that everyday habits, such as using oil-based products, can subtly impact our lungs. If lipoid pneumonia is not identified, it can seriously affect lung health. Recovery is feasible with prompt diagnosis, proper treatment, and a little awareness. That is why frequent health check-ups are essential. With Health Insurance, you will receive financial security and a cashless annual health check-up, allowing you to follow your health updates and take better care of your health without worries.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.