What is DIPNECH?

Abstract

Diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia (DIPNECH) is a rare disorder that is being diagnosed more frequently with the increasing availability of advanced imaging and more accurate histopathology. It occurs most commonly in nonsmoking, middle-aged women. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings include mosaic attenuation due to constrictive bronchiolitis and small (<5 mm) randomly distributed pulmonary nodules. It is important to recognize this condition as it is considered a precursor of peripheral carcinoid tumors. This article will present a case of this uncommon condition with review of the literature, imaging findings, and clinical presentation.