Idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis: two case reports

Abstract

Idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis (IPH) is a rare disorder and is characterised by the occurrence of episodes of diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH). The patients usually present with a history of recurrent haemoptysis, anaemia and alveolar opacities on chest radiograph. The radiographic features are very characteristic and reveal alveolar opacities in middle and lower zones with selective sparing of the upper zones. An extensive diagnostic work-up is needed to exclude other causes of DAH. We report two cases of idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis who responded well to treatment with oral glucocorticoids.