[A case of idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis of adult onset]

Abstract

A 51-year-old man presenting with hemoptysis was admitted to our hospital. Chest radiography revealed air space consolidation in the right lung field. Laboratory data showed anemia, hypoxemia, and no evidence of inflammatory signs, bleeding tendency, renal dysfunction, or collagen vascular diseases. Tests of anti-GBM antibody, P-ANCA, and C-ANCA were negative. Microscopic examination of the lung tissue specimens obtained by video assisted thoracic surgery revealed hemorrhage and numerous hemosiderin-laden macrophages in the alveoli. No deposition of immunoglobulin and vasculitis were seen. These findings were consistent with a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis. Steroid therapy had a limited effect, and the patient died. Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis of adult onset is rare in Japan.