Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis and other pulmonary histiocytic diseases: a review

Abstract

Context: Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis is the most common and best known pulmonary histiocytic lesion; however, the realm of pulmonary histiocytic lesions also includes an assortment of uncommon diseases that may exhibit pulmonary involvement.

Objective: To review pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis and other pulmonary histiocytoses to better ensure correct diagnosis and optimal assessment of prognosis and treatment.

Data sources: Literature review and primary material from the author's institution.

Conclusions: This review discusses the most common pulmonary histiocytosis, pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis, and also reviews the uncommon pulmonary histiocytic lesions, which are distinct from pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis.